When it comes to cut-resistant gloves¹, I know how important it is to choose the right level of protection. With 30 years of experience in the PPE industry, I’ve seen firsthand how ANSI cut levels determine a glove’s ability to protect workers. ANSI Cut Level A6² is one of the high-performance options, offering strong protection for industrial tasks.

What is ANSI Cut Level A6?

ANSI Cut Level A6 gloves provide high cut resistance, capable of withstanding 2500 to 2999 grams of cutting force. These gloves are ideal for handling sharp materials in industries like metalworking, glass processing, and construction.

The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) cut resistance standard³ ranks gloves based on their ability to resist cuts. If you work with sheet metal, glass edges, or other hazardous materials, A6 gloves are a great choice for ensuring safety.

How is ANSI A6 Cut Level Measured?

I always tell my customers that ANSI testing isn’t just about numbers—it’s about real-world protection⁴. The ANSI cut resistance test uses a rotating blade that moves against the glove until it penetrates. The force required to cut through (2500-2999 grams) determines the glove’s cut level.

This standardized test ensures that A6 gloves provide reliable protection⁵ for medium to high-risk tasks such as:

• Metal fabrication
• Automotive assembly
• Demolition work
• Glass handling

ANSI Cut Levels: Where Does A6 Stand?

The ANSI cut levels range from A1 (minimal protection) to A9 (ultimate protection)⁶. A6 sits in the middle-high range, offering a balance of cut resistance and dexterity.

If you’re handling sharp tools, heavy-duty materials, or working in high-risk environments, an A6 glove is a smart choice.

What Are ANSI A6 Gloves Used For?

I’ve worked with countless industries that rely on ANSI A6 gloves for worker protection. These gloves offer a balance of high cut resistance and dexterity⁷, making them ideal for handling sharp materials like sheet metal and glass⁸.

Here are some industries where A6 gloves are essential:

• Glass Manufacturing – Handling sharp-edged glass requires high cut-resistant gloves that still allow for precise handling.
• Metalworking & Fabrication – Workers deal with sharp edges from metal sheets, cutting tools, and machinery, making A6 gloves a necessity.
• Construction & Demolition – These gloves protect against metal rebar, sheet metal, and other sharp materials found on job sites.
• Automotive Industry – When working with brake discs, gears, and sharp metal parts, cut-resistant gloves help prevent serious injuries.
• Warehousing & Logistics – Employees handling sharp packaging materials or industrial equipment need added protection.

What Are ANSI A6 Gloves Made Of?

I always emphasize that materials matter when it comes to glove performance. ANSI A6 gloves are made from durable, high-performance fibers⁹ that provide excellent protection while maintaining flexibility.

I’ve personally tested gloves made with these materials, and I can tell you that a well-made A6 glove feels protective yet comfortable for long shifts.

Is ANSI A6 the Same as CE Cut Level F?

I get this question a lot from international buyers. ANSI A6 and CE Cut Level F both indicate high cut resistance, but they follow different testing methods. A6 is part of the ANSI/ISEA 105 standard¹¹ (U.S.), while CE Cut F belongs to the EN 388:2016 standard (Europe).

Here’s a breakdown of how they compare:

While both A6 and CE Cut F offer high cut resistance, the CE standard also tests for abrasion and puncture resistance, making it more detailed in evaluating glove durability.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been in the PPE industry for over three decades, and I’ve seen how choosing the right cut-resistant glove can prevent serious workplace injuries. ANSI A6 gloves strike the perfect balance between safety and dexterity, making them an excellent choice for workers in high-risk environments.

If you’re sourcing gloves for metalworking, glass handling, or construction, A6-rated gloves are a reliable investment in workplace safety.