How to Choose the Right Cut and Impact Resistant Gloves for Your Job

Choosing the right protective gloves is crucial for ensuring both safety and productivity on the job. With so many options available, finding the best anti impact gloves that also provide adequate cut resistance can be challenging. This glove selection guide will help you understand key features like ANSI cut levels and TPR knuckle protection so you can make an informed decision tailored to your specific work environment.

Understand Your Job Hazards

Before selecting gloves, assess the types of risks you face:

• Are sharp objects like blades, glass, or metal edges a hazard?

• Do you work in an environment where impact injuries from dropped tools or machinery are common?

• Is grip and dexterity important for handling small or slippery parts?

Knowing your hazards will help you prioritize which glove features are essential.

What Are ANSI Cut Levels?

The ANSI/ISEA 105 standard classifies gloves by their cut resistance, rated from A1 (lowest) to A9 (highest). The higher the level, the greater the glove's ability to resist cutting forces.

• A1 to A4: Light to moderate cut protection (e.g., assembly, material handling)

• A5 to A7: Heavy-duty protection for glass handling, metal fabrication

• A8 to A9: Maximum cut resistance for extreme hazards

When choosing gloves, always select a cut level that matches or exceeds the risk in your work environment.

Why Is TPR Knuckle Protection Important?

Many workplace injuries happen from blunt force impacts, such as fingers or knuckles hitting hard surfaces or being struck by falling objects. Gloves with TPR (Thermoplastic Rubber) knuckle protection provide a flexible shield that absorbs and disperses impact energy, reducing injury risk.

TPR protection is typically molded into the back of the glove, covering knuckles and fingers while allowing natural hand movement and dexterity.

Key Features to Look for in the Best Anti Impact Gloves

1. Cut Resistance
   Choose gloves with the appropriate ANSI cut level for your task to prevent cuts and lacerations.

2. Impact Protection
   Look for gloves with TPR knuckle and finger padding to absorb blunt impacts and protect vulnerable areas.

3. Grip and Palm Coating
   Materials like sandy nitrile or polyurethane coatings enhance grip, especially in oily or wet conditions.

4. Comfort and Fit
   Gloves should allow flexibility and breathability to reduce hand fatigue during long shifts.

5. Durability
   High-quality materials and reinforced stitching ensure gloves last longer under tough conditions.

How to Use This Guide

• For light assembly or general labor, gloves with ANSI cut levels A1–A3 and minimal impact protection may suffice.

• For jobs involving sharp tools or glass, choose gloves rated A5 or higher with robust cut resistance.

• For heavy machinery or oil and gas fields where blunt trauma is common, select gloves with TPR knuckle protection combined with cut levels matching your hazard.

• If both sharp and impact hazards exist, prioritize gloves that offer a balanced mix of cut resistance and impact protection.

Final Tips

• Always verify the glove's certifications and standards before purchasing.

• Test gloves in real work scenarios to ensure comfort and performance.

• Consider OEM or custom glove solutions for unique or high-risk environments.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the best anti impact gloves involves balancing protection, comfort, and functionality. By understanding ANSI cut levels and the importance of TPR knuckle protection, you can choose gloves that safeguard your hands without compromising your ability to work effectively.

For expert advice or custom glove solutions tailored to your industry, contact LITA Safety at info@litasafety.com.