The hazard nobody rates for
Most PPE programs specify a cut level and stop. That covers the palm and the fingers, which is where blades act.
It does nothing for a pipe rolling onto the back of a hand, a wrench slipping off a seized fastener, or a load shifting against a knuckle. Those are crush and pinch injuries, and they are common in oil and gas, pipeline, mining, drilling and heavy rigging.
How ANSI/ISEA 138 works
The standard drops a weight onto the knuckle and finger armor and measures the force transmitted through it. Lower transmitted force scores higher.
Level 1 is the entry point, suited to general workshop use. Level 2 covers most industrial work. Level 3 is the highest and belongs on drilling, pipeline and heavy rigging crews.
The level is marked on the glove or its label using the standard's designated impact symbol. Decorative TPR without that marking has been tested for nothing, and it appears on a lot of gloves sold as impact protection.
Impact and cut are separate decisions
A glove can carry ANSI 138 Level 3 armor and almost no cut resistance, or an A6 cut rating with no impact protection at all.
Read both markings. On a rig floor or a pipeline you generally want both, because the same task presents a sharp edge and a crush hazard within a minute of each other.
Armor design decides whether they get worn
TPR moulded as one solid piece across the back is stiff and fights the hand every time it closes. Segmented armor with flex gaps at the joints moves with the hand.
Check the finger armor too. Many gloves armor the knuckles well and leave the fingers, which is where a surprising share of pinch injuries land.
Buying impact gloves in bulk
These cost more per pair than a plain coated glove, and they last longer because the armor takes the abuse the fabric would. Judge them on cost per worker per month.
Standardize on one level per site where the hazard allows. Send us the task list and we will recommend a level and quote case pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does ANSI 138 Level 3 mean?
It is the highest back-of-hand impact rating, measured by how much force the armor transmits under a dropped weight. Level 1 suits general workshop use, Level 3 suits drilling and heavy rigging.
Do impact gloves also protect against cuts?
Only if they carry a separate ANSI/ISEA 105 cut level. Impact and cut are different ratings for different hazards. Check both markings on the cuff.
How do I know if TPR armor is actually rated?
Look for the ANSI/ISEA 138 level and its designated impact symbol on the glove or label. Unmarked TPR has not been tested.
Which industries need impact gloves?
Oil and gas, pipeline, drilling, mining, heavy rigging and demolition, plus any workshop where tools slip off fasteners under load.
Do you sell impact gloves in bulk?
Yes. Case pricing with volume breaks across all three levels, plus single pairs.
