Cut-resistant glove levels for contractors
Your hands are the most important tool in your toolbox, which is why it’s so important to protect them from jobsite hazards with appropriate hand protection. Just like you use the right tool for the job, you also need to pick the right pair of gloves for the task at hand.
Learn how to identify the performance characteristics or cut resistance for a pair of work gloves with the American National Standards Institute, or ANSI, cut-resistance chart.
What is ANSI cut resistance?
ANSI assigns cut score levels based on glove resistance performance by testing gloves according to a singular standard. ANSI cut score levels indicate which gloves are appropriate for certain types of applications.
According to standard 1910.138(b) of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA:
“Employers shall base the selection of the appropriate hand protection on an evaluation of the performance characteristics of the hand protection relative to the task(s) to be performed, conditions present, duration of use, and the hazards and potential hazards identified.”
Using the ANSI cut-resistance chart helps ensure you’re choosing the right work gloves for the job.
ANSI cut-resistance levels
Find the ANSI cut level and force resistance that align with the work you’re doing.
A1: 200-499 grams
A1 has a cutting force resistance of 200-499 grams and can be used for light to medium-duty assembly. Typical applications include maintenance and repair, material handling, and warehouse shipping and receiving.
A2: 500-999 grams
A2 has a cutting force resistance of 500-999 grams and can also be used for light to medium-duty assembly. Typical applications include automotive work, construction, maintenance and repair, material handling and metal handling.
A3: 1,000-1,499 grams
A3 gloves have a cutting force resistance of 1,000-1,499 grams and can be used for medium- to heavy-duty assembly. They’re typically used for the same applications as A2 level gloves: automotive, construction, maintenance and repair, material handling and metal handling.
A4: 1,500-2,199 grams
A4 has a cutting force resistance of 1,500-2,199 grams and can be used for medium-duty assembly. Typical applications include automotive, construction, glass fixture installation, material handling and metal handling.
A5: 2,200-2,999 grams
A5 gloves have a cutting force resistance of 2,200-2,999 grams and are used for heavy-duty assembly. Typical applications include automotive work, construction, glass handling, material handling, metal handling and metal stamping.
A6: 3,000-3,999 grams
A6 has a cutting force resistance of 3,000-3,999 grams and can be used for heavy-duty assembly. These gloves are typically used for the same applications as A5 level gloves: automotive, construction, glass handling, material handling, metal handling and metal stamping.
A7: 4,000-4,999 grams
A7 gloves have a cutting force resistance of 4,000-4,999 grams and are also used for heavy-duty assembly. Typical applications include automotive, construction, glass manufacturing, metal handling and metal stamping.
A8: 5,000-5,999 grams
A8 has a cutting force resistance of 5,000-5,999 grams and can also be used for heavy-duty assembly. These gloves are typically used for the same applications as A7: automotive work, construction work, glass manufacturing, metal handling and metal stamping.
A9: 6,000+ grams
A9 offers the highest cutting force resistance at 6,000 grams and above. These are used for heavy-duty assembly work, including automotive, construction, glass manufacturing, metal handling and metal stamping.
FAQs about ANSI cut score ratings
Find answers to common questions about ANSI cut resistance measuring and ratings to better understand ANSI cut score levels.
What is the testing method ANSI uses to rate gloves?
The testing method currently used is the ANSI/ISEA 105 Standard established in 2016. The test uses only one type of machine – the TDM-100 – to ensure uniform testing.
How does the ANSI cut score test work?
A sample of glove material is placed on the testing surface. Load weight is applied and the sample is cut five times by a straight-edge blade at three different load weights to ultimately determine the strength of the material known as the cut score.
How do I know the cut score rating of a pair of gloves?
ANSI cut score ratings are indicated by the ANSI cut level shield icon, or by an “A” in front of the number rating. Manufacturers of gloves that are tested to ANSI standards will include the icon on gloves or within spec sheets.
What is the highest level of cut-resistant gloves?
ANSI cut levels are scored from A1 to A9, with A9 having the most resistance at 6,000 grams or higher. Gloves with an A9 cut score are approved for a wide range of applications that include heavy-duty assembly, automotive, construction, glass manufacturing, metal handling and metal stamping.
What other steps can I take to protect my hands while working?
In addition to using the appropriate glove for the job according to ANSI standards, you can also protect your hands by having well-fitting gloves. Discover four steps to finding the right work glove size.
Put safety first with Ferguson
Ferguson is committed to helping our customers always put safety first. For more tips to prevent injury and stay safe on the job, explore Safety Matters.