ANSI Cut Levels Explained: A Practical Guide for Safety Buyers

ANSI cut ratings give safety teams a common language for comparing cut resistant gloves. Instead of relying on vague claims such as “heavy duty” or “extra safe,” buyers can look for a tested cut level and match it to the hazard in front of workers.

What ANSI A1-A9 means

The ANSI/ISEA cut scale runs from A1 to A9. Lower levels are used for light cut hazards, while higher levels are designed for more severe cut exposure. The rating is based on the force required for a blade to cut through the glove material during standardized testing.

• A1-A3: light-duty work such as packaging, light assembly, and general handling.
• A4-A6: medium to high cut exposure such as construction, appliance work, glass handling, and metal parts.
• A7-A9: severe cut risk such as sharp sheet metal, heavy glass, blade contact, and demanding fabrication tasks.

Why ratings do not replace a hazard assessment

A rating tells you how the glove performed in a cut test. It does not tell you whether the glove has the right grip, length, coating, heat resistance, impact protection, or comfort for your operation. OSHA expects employers to select appropriate hand protection based on the hazards workers face, so the rating should support your assessment rather than replace it.

Common buying mistakes

The most common mistake is buying the highest cut level for every job. That can increase cost and reduce dexterity where a lower level would work better. The second mistake is choosing a glove that protects the palm but leaves the wrist or forearm exposed during real movements.

SCHWER selection tip

Build your glove matrix by task instead of by department name. For each job, list the sharp object, contact frequency, grip condition, required dexterity, and any secondary hazards. Then match SCHWER cut resistant gloves to the work cell, not just the job title.