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WHY ARE THERE DIFFERENT CUT RESISTANCE STANDARDS?
Cut-resistant protective gloves are used worldwide in a wide variety of work environments. Users frequently encounter two different labelling systems: the European EN 388 and the American ANSI/ISEA 105. Both standards assess the cut resistance of protective gloves – but differ in their test methods and classification systems.Anyone comparing gloves internationally or working in global companies will therefore frequently come across ANSI classifications. But what do the individual protection levels actually mean? And how do ANSI and EN 388 differ?
ANSI CUT RESISTANCE SIMPLY EXPLAINED
The American standard ANSI/ISEA 105 assesses the cut resistance of protective gloves based on the force required to cut through the glove material with a straight blade. The test is carried out using the ASTM F2992 test method, which provides precise and reproducible results.The protection classes range from A1 to A9. The higher the class, the greater the force required to cut through the glove and, consequently, the greater the glove’s cut resistance.
The ANSI classification at a glance:
| ANSI class | Cutting Force | Typical Applications |
| A1-A2 | Low cutting load | Logistics, packaging, light assembly |
| A3-A5 | Medium cutting load | Metalworking, mechanical engineering, industry |
| A6-A9 | High to very high cutting load | Glass industry, heavy industry, work involving very sharp edges |
ANSI OR EN – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Whilst EN 388 is the standard in Europe, classification in North America is predominantly based on ANSI/ISEA 105. Both standards have the same objective – protection against cuts – but use different rating systems.The key differences:
+ In addition to cut resistance, EN 388 also assesses abrasion resistance, tear resistance and puncture resistance
+ ANSI/ISEA 105 considers cut resistance separately and divides it into nine protection levels (A1–A9).
+ Both standards are based on standardised test procedures, but are not directly comparable with one another
It may therefore be useful for companies or users operating internationally to be familiar with both labelling systems.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROTECTION CLASS FOR THE JOB
Whether ANSI or EN 388 – it is not the standard itself that is decisive, but the requirements of the specific workplace. The selection of a protective glove should always be based on the risk assessment. Factors such as material, working environment and the actual risk of cuts play just as important a role as the relevant protection class.Those who understand the differences between ANSI and EN 388 are better able to interpret the markings and select the appropriate protective glove for the specific application.
