ANSI Impact Standards | Majestic Glove

Close-up of a person’s hand wearing Majestic's 21242HO Impact-Protective glove.

Why Impact Standards Are Important

The ANSI/ISEA impact standards provide a consistent framework for evaluating the performance of impact-resistant gloves and focus on protection for the back of the hand, including knuckles and fingers. By establishing classifications and labeling requirements, these standards help professionals make informed decisions to reduce the risk of injuries.

Professionals in the construction, automotive, and manufacturing industries depend on these ratings to stay safe. It is important to remember that just because gloves may look impact-resistant does not mean they are, so always check for certified impact-resistance ratings before use.

Impact Resistance

ANSI/ISEA 138: This standard rates gloves based on their ability to withstand an external impact. Testing involves applying controlled force to specific glove areas, such as the back of the hand and fingers, and measuring the transmitted force inside the glove. Lower transmitted force correlates with a higher impact rating.

Impact Level	Impact Protection	Typical Tasks
Level 1	Provides minimal impact protection, designed to reduce the effect of low-impact hazards.	General material handling, light assembly work
Level 2	Offers moderate impact protection, capable of withstanding medium-impact hazards.	Construction, assembly line work, light power tool use
Level 3	Delivers high impact protection, designed for heavy-impact hazards and extreme conditions.	Oil and gas work, heavy machinery operation, high-impact environments

Impact Level Key Differences

The ANSI/ISEA 150-2021 standard defines levels of impact protection for gloves using a scale from 1 to 3. Level 1 impact protection will prevent moderate injuries, while level 3 is for higher impact scenarios. A glove with different protection levels for fingers and knuckles is rated by the lowest level. For example, a glove with level 3 finger protection and level 2 knuckle protection is rated an ANSI/ISEA 150-2021 level 2 standard.

Impact 1

Warehouse
General Use

Impact 2

Construction
Energy Exploration & Production

Impact 3

Lumber
Oil & Gas

Man holding a hammer using Majestic's 21242HO Mechanics Glove

Marking Requirements

ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 denotes a glove's impact resistance, unlike ANSI/ISEA 105-2024, which covers cuts, abrasions, chemical resistance, and flame resistance. For a glove to be certified under ANSI/ISEA 138-2019, it must display the performance level of impact resistance, and the marking must be visible and legible throughout the glove's useful life.

Majestic's Impact Resistant Technology

Majestic’s impact-resistant gloves use injection-molded thermoplastic to protect the back of the hand and fingers, defending against impact risks while maintaining dexterity and comfort. The Concussion line of gloves are engineered with D3O – the world’s leading impact protection and shock absorption material – to provide an average of 50% more impact protection over traditional TPR gloves.

Worker opening a door using Majestic's impact-resistant Concussion Gloves

Make an Impact with Impact Protection

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported over 153,000 hand-related workplace injuries in 2020. The National Safety Council reported that the cost for a hand injury can range from $540 to $26,000, from a superficial finger injury to more severe and disabling hand injuries. Teams that find the proper impact protection for themselves and their team can help keep everyone safe and productive, allowing them to focus on their tasks rather than the risks.

Learn More About ANSI Standards

Impact Resistance

Cut Resistance

Abrasion

Puncture

High Visibility

Updates & Revisions

ANSI and EN 388 safety standards evolve regularly to incorporate the latest safety research and advancements. Staying informed about these changes ensures you have access to the most effective protective equipment and can better manage workplace risks. Check back here for the latest updates to ANSI and EN 388 standards as they become available.