ANSI/ISEA 105 cut levels (A1 through A9) are determined by the TDM-100 test machine — gram-force at which a blade fully cuts through the material. Anyone can print A5 on a label. Here is how to verify the rating actually exists behind the marking.
Document #1 — Test report
Ask the seller for the TDM-100 test report. A legitimate report shows: blade type and weight, cut force in grams, test date, lab signature. If the seller cannot produce it within 24 hours, the rating is suspect.
Document #2 — Lot traceability
The lot number stamped on the glove or its package should match the lot number on the test report. If lot stamps are missing or generic ("2024" with no batch), there is no audit trail.
Document #3 — ANSI/ISEA 105 statement
The manufacturer should state the standard year (105-2016, 105-2024) and the test laboratory. Vague "ANSI rated" claims without a year reference are insufficient.
5 red flags on imported listings
- No PDF cert sheet attached or available on request
- Inconsistent ANSI level claims across photos vs description
- Reseller account selling 30+ unrelated PPE categories
- Price 60%+ below known A5 manufacturers
- Generic "factory direct" claim without an actual factory address