The ANSI/ISEA impact protection levels for gloves are defined in the ANSI/ISEA 138 standard, which provides a systematic approach to evaluating the impact protection offered by gloves. This standard specifically addresses the protection of knuckles and fingers, which are critical areas for impact injuries in industrial settings. The impact protection levels are categorized into three levels based on the performance of the gloves in standardized testing: 1. **Level 1**: Gloves at this level offer the lowest impact protection. They are designed to withstand an impact force of up to 9 kilonewtons (kN) on the knuckles and fingers. These gloves are suitable for environments where there is a minimal risk of impact injuries. 2. **Level 2**: These gloves provide a moderate level of impact protection, capable of withstanding impact forces between 6.5 kN and 9 kN. Level 2 gloves are appropriate for environments with a moderate risk of impact hazards, offering a balance between protection and dexterity. 3. **Level 3**: The highest level of impact protection is offered by Level 3 gloves, which can withstand impact forces of less than 6.5 kN. These gloves are designed for high-risk environments where there is a significant threat of impact injuries, providing maximum protection to the wearer. The testing for these levels involves dropping a specified weight from a set height onto the glove and measuring the transmitted force. The gloves must meet the criteria for both knuckle and finger protection to be classified at a particular level. This standard helps users select the appropriate gloves based on the specific impact hazards present in their work environment, ensuring both safety and functionality.

CE-rated gloves and ANSI-rated gloves differ primarily in their standards and testing methods, which are based on different regional requirements. CE-rated gloves adhere to European standards, specifically the EN (European Norm) standards. These gloves are tested for various risks such as mechanical, chemical, thermal, and electrical hazards. The EN 388 standard is commonly used for mechanical risks, assessing abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance. CE ratings are denoted by a series of numbers and letters that indicate performance levels in these categories. ANSI-rated gloves follow American standards, specifically those set by the American National Standards Institute. The ANSI/ISEA 105 standard is used for evaluating cut resistance, puncture resistance, and abrasion resistance. ANSI ratings are typically expressed in levels, with cut resistance measured on a scale from A1 to A9, based on the weight needed to cut through the glove material. The key differences lie in the testing methods and scales used. For example, the EN 388 cut test uses a rotating circular blade, while the ANSI/ISEA 105 uses a straight blade. Additionally, the performance levels and criteria for each test can vary, leading to different interpretations of protection levels. In summary, CE-rated gloves are based on European standards and use specific EN tests, while ANSI-rated gloves are based on American standards with different testing methods. Understanding these differences is crucial for selecting the appropriate gloves for specific safety requirements.

Chemical-resistant gloves are made from a variety of materials, each offering different levels of protection against specific chemicals. Common materials include: 1. **Nitrile**: Known for its resistance to oils, fuels, and certain solvents, nitrile gloves are versatile and provide good dexterity. They are often used in laboratories and industrial settings. 2. **Neoprene**: Offers excellent resistance to acids, bases, alcohols, and peroxides. Neoprene gloves are flexible and provide good protection against a wide range of chemicals. 3. **Butyl Rubber**: Highly impermeable to gases and water vapor, butyl rubber gloves are ideal for handling ketones, esters, and highly corrosive acids. They are often used in chemical manufacturing and hazardous material handling. 4. **PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)**: Provides good resistance to acids, bases, and alcohols. PVC gloves are commonly used in food processing and chemical handling. 5. **PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol)**: Offers excellent resistance to aromatic and chlorinated solvents. PVA gloves are not suitable for water-based solutions as they degrade in water. 6. **Viton**: Known for its superior resistance to chlorinated and aromatic solvents, Viton gloves are used in high-risk chemical environments. 7. **Latex**: While offering good elasticity and comfort, latex gloves have limited chemical resistance and are not suitable for use with oils and solvents. They are more commonly used for biological hazards. 8. **Silver Shield/4H**: Made from a multi-layered laminate, these gloves provide excellent protection against a wide range of chemicals, including toxic and hazardous substances. Each material has its strengths and limitations, and the choice of glove material depends on the specific chemicals being handled, the duration of exposure, and the required dexterity and comfort.

1. **Identify Hazards**: Assess the specific risks in your environment, such as cuts, abrasions, punctures, or impacts. 2. **Material Selection**: Choose materials based on the hazards: - **Leather**: Durable and good for abrasion resistance. - **Kevlar**: Offers cut resistance and heat protection. - **Nitrile**: Provides chemical resistance and puncture protection. 3. **Impact Protection**: Look for gloves with thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or other impact-resistant materials on the back of the hand and fingers. 4. **Fit and Comfort**: Ensure a snug fit for dexterity without compromising protection. Consider gloves with adjustable closures. 5. **Grip**: Select gloves with textured surfaces for better grip, especially in wet or oily conditions. 6. **Compliance and Standards**: Check for compliance with relevant safety standards like ANSI/ISEA 138 for impact protection. 7. **Durability**: Consider the longevity of the gloves in your specific work conditions. 8. **Flexibility and Dexterity**: Ensure the gloves allow for necessary hand movements and tasks. 9. **Breathability**: Choose gloves with breathable materials to reduce sweat and increase comfort. 10. **Cost vs. Quality**: Balance budget constraints with the need for quality and protection. 11. **Trial and Feedback**: Test different gloves and gather feedback from users to ensure they meet the required protection and comfort levels. 12. **Brand Reputation**: Consider reputable brands known for quality and reliability in safety gear. 13. **Maintenance and Care**: Ensure the gloves are easy to clean and maintain to extend their lifespan.

Thicker impact-resistant gloves generally offer greater protection against physical hazards due to their increased material density and padding. They are designed to absorb and dissipate the energy from impacts, reducing the risk of injuries such as bruises or fractures. These gloves often incorporate materials like thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or dense foam padding on the back of the hand and fingers, providing enhanced protection in high-risk environments like construction or heavy machinery operation. However, the added thickness can reduce dexterity and tactile sensitivity, making them less suitable for tasks requiring fine motor skills or precision. In contrast, thinner impact-resistant gloves offer a balance between protection and dexterity. While they still provide a degree of impact protection, they are designed to be more flexible and lightweight, allowing for greater hand movement and sensitivity. These gloves are often used in environments where both protection and precision are necessary, such as automotive repair or assembly line work. The thinner design may incorporate advanced materials that offer impact resistance without bulk, but they generally provide less protection against severe impacts compared to their thicker counterparts. Ultimately, the choice between thicker and thinner impact-resistant gloves depends on the specific needs of the task at hand, balancing the level of protection required with the need for dexterity and comfort.