I see many professionals asking about "cut-resistant gloves level 5¹." They are often unsure about the differences between ANSI and EN388 standards² and how these ratings protect hands in various industries.

✅ Cut-resistant gloves level 5 provide high protection against severe cutting hazards, meeting ANSI A5 (2,200–2,999 grams force) or EN388 Level 5 standards.

With years of experience in PPE manufacturing, I’ve seen many professionals confuse these ratings. I once had a colleague who underestimated glove standards, leading to a near-accident. That incident motivated me to study these ratings closely and learn how to select the right gloves for the job.

What Are Cut-Resistant Gloves Level 5 in ANSI?

Many professionals find ANSI standards³ confusing, especially when comparing them to EN388. Here’s a simple explanation.

✅ ANSI Level 5 gloves resist 2,200–2,999 grams of cutting force under TDM-100 testing, providing high protection against industrial hazards like sharp metal edges and glass handling.

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) developed this standard under ANSI/ISEA 105, which uses a TDM-100 machine to measure how much force a blade can apply before cutting through the glove material.

🔹 Best for: Metal fabrication, glass handling, automotive, and industrial environments.
🔹 Why It Matters: It ensures a standardized rating for cut-resistant gloves⁴ used in hazardous workplaces.

I’ve personally worked with metal workers who previously used uncertified gloves, leading to frequent injuries. After switching to verified ANSI Level 5 gloves⁵, injury rates dropped significantly in their plant.

What Are Cut-Resistant Gloves Level 5 in EN388?

The European safety standard, EN388, measures cut, abrasion, tear, and puncture resistance.

✅ EN388 Level 5⁶ gloves are tested with a rotating circular blade (Coupe method), but modern versions use ISO 13997 straight-blade testing for accurate results.

Key Differences from ANSI

🔹 Best for: Glass manufacturing, construction, warehouse handling, and automotive assembly.
🔹 Why It Matters: EN388 includes multiple safety factors, not just cut resistance.

I’ve helped European PPE buyers struggling to compare Coupe Test vs ISO 13997 results⁷. After reviewing lab reports, they understood how newer materials perform in real work conditions.

When People Say "Cut 5 Gloves," What Do They Mean?

Many buyers refer to "Cut 5 gloves" without specifying ANSI or EN388, leading to confusion.

✅ "Cut 5 gloves⁸" is a general term referring to high cut resistance, but it may mean ANSI A5 (2,200–2,999g force) or EN388 Level 5, which uses different testing methods.

🔹 What to Ask When Buying Cut 5 Gloves:

• Which test method was used? (ANSI TDM test or EN388 Coupe test?)
• Is it tested under the latest standards? (ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 or EN388:2016+)
• Does the glove match my work environment? (Different coatings affect performance.)

Comparison: ANSI Level 5 vs EN388 Level 5

💡 Tip: If you need certified cut-resistant gloves, always check which standard the supplier follows.

How to Choose the Right Cut 5 Gloves

When selecting Cut 5 gloves, I always recommend matching them to the work environment.

Step-by-Step Selection Guide

1️⃣ Identify the work hazards – Are you handling glass, metal, or sharp objects?
2️⃣ Choose between ANSI or EN388 – If you need abrasion & puncture resistance, go for EN388.
3️⃣ Check glove coatings – Nitrile for oil, latex for dry grip, PU for dexterity.
4️⃣ Ensure a proper fit – Loose gloves reduce protection.
5️⃣ Verify safety certifications – Request test reports from suppliers.

I once helped a metal stamping company choose ANSI Level 5 gloves with impact-resistant TPR. Their injury rate dropped by 60% after making the switch. The right gloves matter.

FAQs

1. Are Cut 5 Gloves the Same as ANSI A5?

No, Cut 5 gloves can refer to either ANSI A5 or EN388 Level 5, which use different testing methods.

2. Which Cut-Resistant Gloves Are Best for Glass Handling?

ANSI Level 5 gloves with HPPE or Kevlar lining provide excellent protection for sharp glass edges.

3. Can Cut 5 Gloves Protect Against Punctures?

Not necessarily. Check the EN388 puncture resistance rating⁹ if puncture protection is needed.

Conclusion

✅ ANSI Level 5 gloves provide 2,200–2,999g cut resistance under TDM testing.
✅ EN388 Level 5 gloves use a circular blade but now include ISO 13997 straight-blade testing.
✅ Always check test reports before purchasing gloves labeled as “Cut 5.”

🔗 Shop ANSI & EN388 Certified Cut-Resistant Gloves