If your workers handle pipe, tools, chain, cargo, or heavy components, the backs of their hands can be exposed to crushing, pinching, and struck-by hazards. ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 gives you a consistent way to compare the impact performance of occupational gloves across the knuckles, fingers, and thumb.
The standard does not tell you which level every job requires. You must begin with a task-based hazard assessment, then combine the impact rating with fit, grip, cut protection, coating, and cuff coverage.
What is ANSI/ISEA 138-2019?
ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 is the American National Standard for Performance and Classification for Impact-Resistant Gloves. It establishes test, classification and marking requirements for gloves designed to reduce impact force on the back of the hand. As of October 2026, ISEA continues to list the 2019 edition as the current published impact-glove standard.
ANSI/ISEA 138 complements ANSI/ISEA 105, which addresses properties such as cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance. An ANSI/ISEA 138 rating does not automatically provide any particular cut level, and an ANSI cut rating does not prove back-of-hand impact performance.
How the impact test works
In the test, a 2.5 kg striker delivers 5 joules of impact energy to defined areas over the knuckles and fingers. Sensors record the force transmitted through the protective material in kilonewtons (kN). Lower transmitted force means that the glove absorbed and dispersed more of the impact.
Finger and knuckle regions are evaluated separately. The glove’s overall rating is based on the lowest performance level recorded. For example, if the knuckle region achieves Level 2 but the finger region achieves Level 1, the glove must be marked Level 1. This prevents one well-protected zone from hiding a weaker area.
ANSI/ISEA 138 performance levels
| Level | Mean transmitted force | Maximum individual impact | Practical interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤ 9.0 kN | ≤ 11.3 kN | Entry-level impact attenuation for lower or occasional impact exposure |
| 2 | ≤ 6.5 kN | ≤ 8.1 kN | Greater impact attenuation for regular industrial handling hazards |
| 3 | ≤ 4.0 kN | ≤ 5.0 kN | Highest level within this standard for demanding impact exposure |
A higher level means less force was transmitted in the laboratory test. It does not make a glove crush-proof, and it does not guarantee that the glove will prevent every injury. The “practical interpretation” column is only a starting point; your risk assessment and field trial determine suitability.
Where impact-resistant gloves are commonly used
- Oil and gas: handling pipe, hoses, couplings and drilling equipment.
- Mining: working around tools, rock, machinery and pinch points.
- Construction: moving materials, rigging, demolition and equipment maintenance.
- Warehousing and logistics: handling cargo, drums, chains and irregular loads.
- Manufacturing: assembly, metal handling and maintenance around moving components.
- Towing and transport: working with straps, hooks, chains and recovery equipment.
Impact gloves are one control within a broader safety system. Guarding, lifting equipment, exclusion zones, procedures and training should address the hazard before PPE is selected.
How to choose the right impact level
1. Identify the impact mechanism
Record what can strike or trap the hand, its mass, likely speed, contact area, and frequency. A light bump against a fixed surface is different from a dropped component or a hand caught between pipe and equipment.
2. Check coverage, not only the number
Look at the placement of TPR or other impact material over the fingertips, finger joints, knuckles, and metacarpal area. Protection should remain aligned when the hand bends and grips. Large gaps or displaced guards can leave the hazard zone exposed.
3. Combine impact and cut requirements
Pipe, sheet metal, and damaged components may create impact and sharp-edge hazards at the same time. Specify the required ANSI/ISEA 138 level and an appropriate ANSI/ISEA 105 or EN 388 cut rating separately.
4. Match the palm coating to the environment
For oily handling, examine grip performance and oil compatibility. For dry construction, abrasion and tactile control may be more important. A secure grip can reduce the chance of a dropped part, but coating claims should be verified through a realistic trial.
5. Protect the wrist when the task requires it
ANSI/ISEA 138 focuses on back-of-hand impact protection. It does not mean that the wrist or forearm is protected. If your task exposes those areas, specify the cuff length, coating and construction separately.
How to verify a supplier’s impact claim
- Match the product code. The glove, packaging, report, and declaration should identify the same model and construction.
- Confirm the standard edition. Look for ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 rather than an undefined “impact resistant” claim.
- Read the marked level. Compliant gloves use the impact pi
- ctogram with Level 1, 2, or 3.
- Request the complete test evidence. Confirm the tested size, materials, TPR layout, finger result, knuckle result, and overall classification.
- Check the laboratory. The standard requires testing by a laboratory accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 for the relevant method.
- Control product changes. A different TPR compound, thickness, layout, liner, or attachment method can affect performance.
- Conduct a wearer trial. Test grip, dexterity, flex points, TPR alignment, heat build-up, and glove retention in the actual task.
Common misunderstandings
- “More TPR means a higher level.” Appearance cannot replace test data. Material formulation, geometry, and attachment all influence transmitted force.
- “Level 3 is always the best choice.” Higher attenuation may add bulk or stiffness. Select the protection your assessment requires while preserving safe tool control.
- “The palm is impact rated.” ANSI/ISEA 138 addresses dorsal protection; other palm-side hazards require separate evaluation.
- “An impact rating includes cut protection.” Impact and cut are different claims and need separate ratings.
- “Every size performs identically.” Ask whether the report and product family adequately cover the sizes you are buying.
Field-trial checklist
- Does the TPR remain centred over knuckles and finger joints during a full grip?
- Can the wearer grasp wet or oily parts without excessive force?
- Can the wearer operate controls, fasteners and hand tools?
- Does the cuff remain in position and cover the intended area?
- Are seams, TPR edges, or pressure points causing discomfort?
- Does the glove retain fit after repeated flexing and a normal work period?
- Are workers removing the glove because it is too hot, stiff, or bulky?
Record feedback by model, size, task, and shift. A structured trial produces more useful evidence than asking whether a glove “feels good.” You can also use our impact-glove design guide to compare TPR layouts and our fit and field-test checklist for crew trials.
Frequently asked questions
Is ANSI/ISEA
138-2019 still the current edition?
Yes. As of October 2026, ISEA lists ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 as its published standard for impact-resistant gloves.
Is Level 3 better than Level 2?
Level 3 transmits less force in the standard laboratory test and is the highest performance level. Suitability still depends on the task, coverage, fit, grip, and other hazards.
Why does the lowest-tested region determine the rating?
The rule prevents strong knuckle protection from masking weaker finger or thumb protection. The displayed level represents the glove’s weakest evaluated impact region.
Does ANSI/ISEA 138 cover palm impacts?
No. It is intended for back-of-hand protection over the fingers and knuckles. Evaluate palm, wrist, and forearm hazards separately.
Can I select an impact glove from photographs?
No. Photographs can show coverage, but they cannot prove transmitted-force performance. Request the marking and test report for the exact model.
Specify the complete glove, not only the impact level
Your purchase specification should state the task, ANSI/ISEA 138 level, requ
ired cut or puncture rating, liner, palm coating, cuff, sizes, marking, test evidence, and sample approval process. Browse Everpro impact-resistant gloves or contact us with your application and documentation requirements.
