Cut-resistant gloves are commonly used in workplaces where employees handle sharp tools, metal, glass, machinery or other materials that could injure the hands.
However, not every cut-resistant glove offers the same level of protection. Understanding the cut levels from A to F can help businesses choose gloves that are appropriate for the job.
What are cut-resistant gloves?
Cut-resistant gloves are designed to reduce the risk of hand injuries caused by contact with sharp objects or materials.
They can be used across many industries, including:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Warehousing
- Engineering
- Glass handling
- Metal handling
- Recycling
- Maintenance
What do cut levels A to F mean?
The EN388 system uses letters to represent the result of the ISO 13997 cut-resistance test. The scale progresses as follows:
| Cut level | Protection | Shop this level |
|---|---|---|
| Level A | Lower cut resistance | Cut Level A gloves |
| Level B | Moderate cut resistance | Cut Level B gloves |
| Level C | Higher cut resistance | Cut Level C gloves |
| Level D | High cut resistance | Cut Level D gloves |
| Level E | Very high cut resistance | Cut Level E gloves |
| Level F | The highest level on this scale | Cut Level F gloves |
The appropriate level depends on the risk involved in the job.
Does every worker need Level F gloves?
No.
A common mistake is to assume that the highest protection level is automatically the best choice.
For a worker performing light handling tasks, a lower cut level such as Level A or Level B may provide sufficient protection while allowing greater dexterity and flexibility.
Someone handling sharp sheet metal or glass may require substantially higher cut resistance, such as Level E or Level F.
The correct choice should always be based on the workplace risk assessment and the manufacturer’s specifications.
Consider more than cut resistance
Cut resistance is only one part of choosing a glove.
You should also consider:
- Grip
- Dexterity
- Comfort
- Material
- Additional protection
- Working environment
A glove may need to provide cut, impact, heat, chemical or waterproof protection depending on the task.
How do I choose the right cut level?
Start by identifying what workers are handling.
- General handling may require lower levels depending on the hazard.
- Construction may require moderate to high cut protection for certain tasks – typically Level C or Level D.
- Metal handling can require higher cut protection where sharp edges are present.
- Glass handling may require a higher level depending on the material and process.
Always complete an appropriate workplace risk assessment before selecting PPE. Not sure where to start? Read how to choose the right work gloves.
Quick answer
Cut levels A to F indicate increasing cut resistance under the relevant EN388 testing method. The right level depends on the hazard, material being handled and other workplace requirement, not simply on choosing the highest number.