What do the markings on safety gloves actually mean?

ANSI/ISEA 105 is the North American standard used to classify the performance of protective gloves across a range of workplace hazards. It provides ratings for cut, puncture, abrasion, and chemical resistance. Cut resistance is measured using the TDM Test, with results rated from A1 to A9 offering a scale that aligns protection levels with task requirements.

The key difference between EN 388 and ANSI/ISEA 105 lies in how each standard approaches testing and rating glove performance. EN 388 uses two methods to assess cut resistance (the Coup Test and the TDM Test) while ANSI/ISEA 105 relies exclusively on the TDM Test. This means EN 388 rated gloves may show two cut ratings or mark one as “X” if the Coup Test isn’t used.

Another distinction is in how results are presented: EN 388 combines numbers and letters to indicate performance across multiple risks, whereas ANSI uses a numerical scale, particularly for cut resistance. EN 388 also includes optional impact protection, which covers in a separate test under ANSI/ISEA 138.

When selecting safety gloves, these standards help identify the right protection for specific hazards. EN 511 covers cold protection with ratings for convective cold, contact cold, and water resistance. EN ISO 374 applies to chemical and micro-organism protection, using Type A/B/C classifications and chemical codes. EN 407 addresses heat and flame hazards, rating gloves for flammability, contact heat, convective heat, radiant heat, and molten metal resistance. uvex gloves are certified to the latest EN 388, EN 511 and EN ISO 374 standards.

Choosing the right safety glove starts with understanding the specific risks associated with your task by undertaking a thorough risk assessment. Different working environments expose hands to different hazards, such as cuts, abrasions, chemicals, or extreme temperatures. The markings on a glove identify which protective features are most suitable. However, the perfect glove isn’t just about protection; it should also offer comfort, dexterity, and grip to ensure productivity and safety go hand in hand.

At uvex, we believe the best safety gloves combine protection, comfort, and innovation. Our gloves are designed to meet the highest safety standards while ensuring wearers can work efficiently and comfortably.

Many uvex gloves are proudly Made in Germany in a CO₂ neutral facility, where we uphold strict quality control and have an ISO 14001 environmental certification, a unique achievement among glove manufacturers. ISO 14001 is an international standard for environmental management, helping us minimise impact and continuously improve sustainability.

Sustainable materials like bamboo are just one part of our approach. uvex also reduces plastic in packaging and supports ethical, energy-efficient production as part of our broader sustainability commitment

Need help choosing the right glove? Use the uvex Glove Expert and Chemical Expert System for tailored recommendations. You can also contact our PPE Solutions Specialists and Advisors for personalised advice.

Safety glove markings are more than just numbers and letters as they’re a vital tool for ensuring workplace safety and regulatory compliance. By understanding standards like EN 388 and ANSI/ISEA 105, you can confidently choose gloves that match your needs and protect your team.

Key takeaways:

• EN 388 and ANSI/ISEA 105 are globally recognised standards for glove safety.
• Each marking provides insight into protection against abrasion, cuts, tears, punctures, and impact.
• Glove lifespan depends on use, exposure, and maintenance — regular inspection is essential.
• Choosing the right glove involves balancing protection with dexterity, comfort, and task-specific needs.