I’m sure you’ve heard it all before. Cut resistant, impact gloves, arc flash, A7, ANSI – the list goes on and on. Let’s break down common certified standards and how to find them.
This is likely the most common parent classification of glove standards that you’ll see on your favourite pair of work gloves. The ANSI/ISEA is the “American National Standard” for ratings, holding strict requirements that the gloves must withstand when tested and evaluated. Although this standard is based from the United States of America, these standards have been adopted all across North America including Canada.
Typical categories include cut resistance, impact resistance, heat resistance, arc flash resistance, and chemical resistance. There are also categories for other hazards such as biological hazards.
Cut Resistance:
The “A scale” of resistance refers to measured levels of cut pressure that can be applied to the fabrics. You will see ratings from “A1” (least resistant, but measurable) to “A9” (highest resistance). Cut resistance is not “cut proof”, or “puncture proof”. It is an additional protective measure to reduce chance of serious injury while working with sharp tools or machinery.
Typically these gloves consist of a relatively thin cut-resistant cloth within a leather shell, or simply dipped into a grip additive such as nitrile. Materials commonly used are Kevlar, HPPE, or Aramid.
They may also be combined with other levels of protection. This includes additional heat resistant materials such as certified leathers, impact resistant TPR on the top of the hand, or heavy-duty chemical resistant PVC coatings. You may also find other ratings such as “abrasion” or “puncture” alongside this category.
While they will never completely reduce cuts, Cut Resistant gloves are a crucial tool for many job sites. Come check out our amazing variety of cut resistant gloves in-store or online here at bigboyworkwear.ca
And yes, we’ve got sizes for big hands too. Many styles available up to size 3XL!
Impact Resistance
Ever seen the little logo of a hand and a hammer on your gloves? Y’know the big chunks of rubber you find on top? That’s impact resistance! Like a hard hat, but for your hands. Designed to significantly spread the force of an impact across your hand, rather than concentrate and risk severe injury.
Like cut resistance, there are levels to protection. You will find “Impact 1” or “Impact Level 1” all the way up to “Impact 3” or “Impact Level 3“. Your typical safety requirement for resistance is going to usually be “Impact 2″, which will be the most common rating for impact. Always check with your safety officer or job site on requirements if you are unsure.
The most common material used is “TPR”, a form of easily moldable and highly resistant rubber.
