Cut-Resistant Gloves: What You Need to Know Before You Buy

When you are handling glass, sheet metal, sharp tools or machinery, your hands are you most important yet most vulnerable asset. That's where cut-resistant gloves come in. Although not all gloves are created equal, terms such as "Level 5" or "Level F" can be confusing if you're not across the safety standards.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about cut-resistant gloves: What the ratings mean, how to choose the right level of protection for your job, and how they work. We will also showcase some top-rated options available at Nessco Trade Supplies.

What are Cut-Resistant Gloves?

Cut resistant gloves are PPE designed to protect hands from sharp objects and hazadous materials. These gloves are made from high-strength fibers such as HPPE, Kevlar, or engineered yarns, and are often coated with polyurethane, nitrile, or latex for better grip and abrasion resistance.

Typically, these gloves are used in:

• Construction

• Metal Fabrication

• Glass Handling

• Engineering and Manufacturing

• Automotive Work

Understanding Cut Resistance Ratings

Cut resistance is measured using two primary global standards: EN 388 (used in Australia and Europe) and ANSI/ISEA 105 (used mainly in the United States). Both assess how well a glove resists cuts under pressure, but they use different testing methods and rating scales.

EN 388 (European Standard)

EN 388 evaluates gloves for abrasion, cut, tear, and puncture resistance, with each property scored separately. The cut resistance rating is given a letter from A to F:

• A = Low cut resistance, suitable for light-duty work

• F = maximum cut resistance, for high-risk tasks like glass or sharp metal handling

This test involves a straight blade cutting through the material under a fixed load.

ANSI/ISEA 105 (US Standard)

This standard uses a numeric scale from A1 to A9, it measures the grams of force required to cut through the glove material using a different testing method, more precise for industrial settings.

ANSI Level	Force Required (grams)	Typical Use
A1–A3	200–999 g	Light general work
A4–A6	1,000–3,000 g	Construction, metal handling
A7–A9	4,000+ g	Glass work, sharp-edge handling

Why Cut Ratings Matter on Site

Choosing gloves based on real-world risks, not just ratings, is critical. For example, if you're handling sheet metal all day, a level D glove may not be enough. Sharp edges can cause deep lacerations, especially under pressure. That's where level F gloves come to play, they're designed to handle the most extreme cut risks while still offering solid grip and movement.

Choosing the Right Glove for the Job

To choose the right cut-resistant glove, consider:

• Type of task - Is it high-risk (glass handling) or general duty?

• Dexterity needed - Do you need fine motor skills or is bulk okay?

• Comfort for long wear - Breathability and fit matter if you're wearing them all day

• Grip requirements - Coating type (nitirile, PU, latex) affects performance on oily or wet surfaces

Common Mistakes When Buying Cut-Resistant Gloves

• Overlooking Coating Type: A glove's coating affects everything from grip to abrasion resistance. For oily work surfaces, nitrite outperforms PU or later. For dry conditions, PU offers better flexibility.

• Buying One-Size-Fits-All: Ill-fitting gloves reduce tactile feel and can actually create safety risks by slipping or bunching

• Ignoring Other Hazards: Cut-resistant gloves don't always protect against punctures or heat. If your tasks involve sparks, oil, or vibration, you'll need gloves designed for multiple hazards.

Graphex Gloves: Built for Real-World Trade Use

The Graphex glove range isn't just about high safety ratings. These gloves are designed with real job sites in mind, made for durability, grip, comfort, and longevity. Reinforced thumb crotches, breathable liners, and smart-knit designs mean you can wear them all day long without sacrificing precision or safety.

Whether you're grinding metal, fitting glass, or handling offcuts on a building site, Graphex gloves offer the resistance and flexibility to go the distance.

Featured Cut-Resistant Gloves at Nessco

We stock a full range of level 5 cut resistance, built for professionals who take safety seriously:

Graphex FPR400 & FPR450 (Level D)

• Designed for durability and dexterity

• Ideal for general industrial and assembly work

• Comfortable for all-day use

Learn More

Graphex FPR452 BEYOND (Level D)

• Flexible PU coating for precision tasks

• A step up in comfort and performance

Learn More

Graphex FPR500–FPR506 Series (Level F)

• High cut resistance for serious hazards

• Ideal for glass handling, sheet metal, and demolition work

• Multiple fit and coating options are available

Learn More

Quick Tips Before You Buy

• Always check the glove's EN 388 rating and match it to your application

• Don't overprotect at the expense of comfort or dexterity

• Replace gloves as soon as they show wear or damage

• Choose coatings that suit your work surface (oily vs dry)

Conclusion

Cut-resistant gloves are a crucial part of any high-risk worksite, but not all gloves are right for every job. Understanding the difference between a Level D and a Level F glove, choosing the right material and coating, and knowing how ratings translate to real-world use will help you make a smarter, safer choice.

Need help picking the right glove for your task? Get in touch with the Nessco team for expert advice and dependable product options that meet Australian standards.