What Is a Cut-Resistant Glove Rating (ANSI & EN388 Specs)
A cut-resistant glove rating shows how a glove performed in a specific laboratory cut test. ANSI/ISEA 105 uses levels A1–A9; EN 388 uses a five-part code, including a TDM cut letter from A to F. These ratings help compare gloves for sharp materials and hand tools, but neither standard certifies gloves for chainsaw protection.
A glove can carry an impressive cut rating and still be the wrong glove for the job. That is the awkward part: a number meant to make protection easier to understand can create a false sense of safety if you do not know what was tested.
When I explain glove labels, I start with one question: what could cut your hand? A knife edge, sheet metal, thorny brush, and a moving chainsaw create different hazards. The rating matters only when it matches the hazard.
Choose the Rating and Equipment for the Hazard
A cut rating describes performance in a named test, not a promise that a glove will prevent every cut. ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 help compare gloves for sharp edges and similar workplace hazards. For chainsaw work, look for chainsaw-specific protection and follow the saw maker’s PPE instructions.
What does an ANSI cut level mean?
ANSI/ISEA 105 rates cut resistance from A1 to A9. The test uses the ASTM F2992 TDM-100 method, and the result is based on the force, measured in grams, needed to cut the glove material under the test conditions. A higher level indicates a higher tested cut resistance, not guaranteed protection in every use.
| ANSI/ISEA 105 level | Approximate cut-force band |
|---|---|
| A1 | 200–499 g |
| A2 | 500–999 g |
| A3 | 1,000–1,499 g |
| A4 | 1,500–2,199 g |
| A5 | 2,200–2,999 g |
| A6 | 3,000–3,999 g |
| A7 | 4,000–4,999 g |
| A8 | 5,000–5,999 g |
| A9 | 6,000 g or more |
The gram value is a test-force measure, not the weight of an object that the glove can safely handle. For example, A4 does not mean “safe against every blade that applies less than 2,200 grams.” Real cuts depend on factors such as the edge, motion, pressure, glove fit, and material condition.
How do you read an EN 388 rating?
EN 388:2016+A1:2018 uses a five-position performance code. From left to right, it reports abrasion, circular-blade cut (Coupe), tear, puncture, and ISO 13997 TDM cut performance. A P may follow the code if the glove passed the standard’s impact-protection test.
For example, a marking such as 4X43D P should be read by position, not as one overall score. The D is the TDM cut letter; X in the Coupe position means the test was unsuitable or was not performed. Check the product information for the full marking and its limits.
The TDM cut letters correspond to minimum force thresholds:
| EN 388 TDM letter | Minimum force threshold |
|---|---|
| A | 2 N |
| B | 5 N |
| C | 10 N |
| D | 15 N |
| E | 22 N |
| F | 30 N |
The Coupe result is a separate circular-blade test. It may appear as a number or X, and it is not interchangeable with the TDM letter. Read the whole code because gloves can differ in abrasion, tear, puncture, or impact performance even when their cut result is similar.
Can you convert ANSI levels to EN 388 letters?
No. ANSI A1–A9 and EN 388 TDM A–F come from different standards and rating scales. Do not treat an ANSI level as an equivalent EN letter, or use a chart that claims a direct conversion unless the specific product documentation explains a valid comparison.
Key takeaway: Compare products within the test method shown on the label, then check whether that test addresses your actual hazard.
Does a high cut rating protect against a chainsaw?
No. ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 cut ratings do not certify a glove for chainsaw protection. A glove with a high ANSI level or EN 388 TDM letter can still fail to stop a moving chain, which can cause severe injury.
EN ISO 11393-4 covers protective gloves for chainsaw users. Check the product’s actual certification, coverage, and stated limitations. Use the chainsaw PPE required by the saw manufacturer and follow safe work practices. No glove makes contact with a moving chain safe.
Prepare and Work Safely in the Field
Choose gloves by identifying the hazard first, then checking the label, fit, condition, grip, and dexterity. A high cut rating alone does not establish that a glove suits the task. Before work, make sure the glove’s tested protection and design match what your hands may contact.
Match the glove to the task
Consider what can hurt your hand, not just whether the material looks sharp. A knife-like edge calls for a glove with a relevant cut-resistance rating. Abrasion, puncture, impact, and chainsaw hazards need their own checks; one rating does not cover them all.
| Task or hazard | What to check |
|---|---|
| Handling sharp-edged sheet metal | Cut rating, fit, grip, and whether the glove also suits the edge and handling method |
| Using a hand knife | Cut rating and dexterity; keep the free hand out of the blade path |
| Working around abrasive materials | EN 388 abrasion result, as well as the cut rating if edges are present |
| Handling pointed objects | Puncture result; cut resistance alone does not describe puncture performance |
| Operating a chainsaw | Chainsaw-specific glove certification, coverage, saw instructions, and required PPE |
These are selection prompts, not guarantees that a glove is suitable for every version of a task. Follow workplace rules and the manufacturer’s instructions. If the label or product documentation does not clearly identify the protection you need, choose another product or ask a qualified safety professional.
A practical selection example
Suppose you are moving sheet metal and also trimming brush with a chainsaw. The sharp metal edges call for gloves selected for the relevant cut hazard, with enough grip and dexterity to handle the material. That choice does not carry over to the chainsaw task.
For chainsaw work, check for gloves certified and marked to EN ISO 11393-4 where applicable, confirm the coverage and limitations, and use the other required PPE. Keep your hands away from the chain path. Do not use a high ANSI or EN 388 cut rating as permission to touch, guide, or test a moving chain.
Key takeaway: If the task changes, reassess the glove. A glove that suits one cut hazard may not suit another.
Inspect, Clean, and Maintain Protective Gloves
A glove’s label describes tested performance when the product is in suitable condition. Damage, contamination, poor fit, or improper care can affect how it works. Inspect gloves before and after use, and follow the product maker’s cleaning and care directions rather than guessing.
Check fit and condition before use
A glove should fit well enough for controlled handling without slipping or restricting the movement needed for the task. Check the palm, fingers, seams, and any coated or reinforced areas. Do not use gloves with cuts, worn-through spots, damaged seams, or contamination that could affect grip or protection.
Also confirm that the glove is suitable for the work at hand. A cut rating does not tell you whether the glove will provide the grip, dexterity, or other protection your task requires. If you cannot read the marking or verify the product’s stated protection, do not assume.
Clean gloves as directed
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and drying instructions. Some protective materials or coatings may be affected by unsuitable laundering, heat, chemicals, or repairs. Do not alter or repair gloves in a way that could compromise their protective materials or certification.
After cleaning, let gloves dry as directed and inspect them again before use. Retire them if they remain contaminated, no longer fit properly, or show damage. Key takeaway: Care instructions are part of using the rated glove as intended.
Retire and Store Gloves Correctly
Retire gloves when they are damaged, contaminated, or no longer fit or grip as intended. Store usable gloves according to the manufacturer’s directions so their materials are not exposed to conditions that may harm them. A rating is not a reason to keep using a worn glove.
Before putting gloves away, check them for tears, worn areas, loose seams, and other visible damage. Keep them clean and dry as directed, and store them away from conditions the manufacturer warns against. Do not modify them or rely on a repair unless the manufacturer approves it.
If a glove’s history or condition is uncertain, do not treat its original rating as proof that it remains protective. Replace it with a suitable product and verify the marking again.
Frequently asked questions
What does a cut-resistant glove rating tell me?
It tells you how the glove performed in a defined cut test. It helps compare products, but does not guarantee protection from every blade, edge, or work method.
Is ANSI A9 the same as EN 388 F?
No. ANSI A9 and EN 388 F come from different test systems and scales. Do not treat them as equivalent ratings.
What does the ANSI number measure?
ANSI/ISEA 105 uses the ASTM F2992 TDM-100 test. Its A1–A9 levels correspond to approximate cut-force bands measured in grams.
What does the EN 388 letter measure?
The TDM letter reports a cut-test result under ISO 13997. Letters A through F correspond to minimum force thresholds from 2 N to 30 N.
What does X mean on an EN 388 label?
An X in the circular-blade Coupe position means that test was unsuitable or was not performed. It is not the TDM cut letter.
Does EN 388 only measure cut resistance?
No. Its five positions report abrasion, Coupe cut, tear, puncture, and TDM cut performance. An optional P indicates a passed impact-protection test.
Can I wear an A9 glove while using a chainsaw?
An A9 rating alone does not establish chainsaw protection. Check for chainsaw-specific certification, including EN ISO 11393-4 where applicable, and follow the saw maker’s PPE instructions.
Does a chainsaw glove make chain contact safe?
No. No glove makes contact with a moving chain safe. Keep hands away from the chain path and use the required PPE and safe work practices.
When should I replace cut-resistant gloves?
Replace gloves that are cut, worn through, have damaged seams, are contaminated, or no longer fit or grip properly. Follow the manufacturer’s care and replacement guidance.
Can I wash or repair a cut-resistant glove?
Only as the manufacturer directs. Unsuitable washing, alteration, or repair may compromise protective materials or certification.
(This article was written by one of our staff writers, Evan Bradley. Visit our Meet the Team page.)
