Gloves Selection: Using ANSI/ISEA 105-2016 American National Standard for Chemical Permeation Gloves Classification

Standard ASTM F739-12

The chemical permeation performance rating of a glove measures the rate at which chemicals pass through the material on a molecular level. When a glove is tested in accordance with ASTM F739-12, the chemical permeation performance is classified as shown below:

Niveau Variation de %
0 < 10
1 ≥ 10
2 ≥ 30
3 ≥ 60
4 ≥ 120
5 ≥ 240
6 ≥ 480

Longer times indicate better chemical permeation resistance.

Standard EN ISO 374-1: 2016

It is based on three test methods:

  • Penetration test in accordance with standard EN 374-2: 2014
  • Permeation test in accordance with standard EN 16523-1: 2015 which replaces standard EN 374-3
  • Degradation test in accordance with standard EN 374-4: 2013.

To be able to claim protection against a chemical of the list, permeation and from now degradation tests must be carried out. The results of the degradation test must appear in the information leaflet.

Level Breakthrough Time (minutes)
1 > 10
2 > 30
3 > 60
4 > 120
5 > 240
6 > 480

The permeation performance index expresses the passage time of the product through the sample.

Code Chemical
A Methanol
B Acetone
C Acetonitrile
D Dichloromethane
E Carbon Disulfide
F Toluene
G Diethylamine
H Tetrahydrofuran
I Ethyl Acetate
J n-Heptane
K Sodium Hydroxide 40%
L Sulfuric Acid 96%
Did you know?

The American National Standards Institute / International Safety Equipment Association (ANSI/ISEA) 105-2016 American National Standard for Hand Protection Classification is the latest revision of a voluntary consensus standard first published in 1999, and revised in 2005, 2011 and 2016.

This standard addresses the classification and testing of hand protection for specific performance properties related to chemical and industrial applications. It provides, or refers to, appropriate test methods and provides pass/fail criteria used by manufacturers to classify their products. End users can use this information to review the documentation received from their supplier to help verify the gloves they are considering meet their needs.

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