ANSI/ISEA 105-2024: What You Need to Know
By John Heniff, Safety Writer, Magid
An updated ANSI/ISEA standard has initiated big changes in the PPE world. The ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 Standard for Hand and Arm Protection Classification establishes criteria for clarity and consistency in labeling specific protection ratings on work gloves and sleeves. With this update, workers and PPE buyers will see new designs on their go-to protective gear to display these ratings. What do these new designs look like? What else does this updated standard discuss? How does it affect you and your workers? We have the answers to your questions.
DECODING THE ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 STANDARD
The standard establishes a uniform presentation for the cut, abrasion, and puncture protection offered by a work glove or sleeve. Using a pentagon pictogram badge, rating levels are placed in specific areas within the badge and displayed on the PPE so it’s visible and legible throughout its regular and normal lifespan. If characteristics (such as a glove’s material) prevent it from having markings, the badge can be found on the product packaging or on a document supplied with the product.
Magid has taken this one step further by color-coding cut resistance levels for easy identification, as well.
If a product hasn’t been tested for a specific rating, or the testing method isn’t applicable for a particular glove or sleeve, the rating information will be represented with an “X” in the badge. These changes make the new ANSI/ISEA standard more consistent with the EN standard used for European products.
Protection Levels Remain Unchanged, Stronger Focus on Rating Verification
With this change in appearance, will new PPE still provide the same protection as before? Yes! The new standard does not alter previously established protection levels or ratings. However, the standard does put a stronger emphasis on third-party verification of cut, abrasion, and puncture testing results, something that many PPE manufacturers like Magid have utilized for years.
Removal of Vibration Reduction & Dexterity Testing
The update also notes that measurements of vibration reduction and dexterity are no longer covered in the standard. While vibration reduction is no longer included, it is still referenced in Appendix E, “Other Factors for Consideration.”
HOW THE UPDATED STANDARD HELPS YOU & YOUR WORKERS
This update creates more conformity in the PPE world. Now workers can quickly see if a glove or sleeve provides the levels of protection they need so they can make quicker PPE decisions for the job at hand. It also lets them easily compare different PPE options without having to search for the cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance levels on the products or product receipts.
Glove and sleeve manufacturers must follow the ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 standard to ensure their products meet the updated emphasis on testing and quality assurance. This emphasis on third-party verification creates even more assurance that the safety gear you’re giving your workers will hold up to the tasks and hazards in their work areas!
Ready to find comfortable and protective work gloves and sleeves for your team?
Take a look at what Magid has to offer!
