We believe that when we prioritize the quality of our products and build relationships that last, sales will follow. To us, this is about more than just profit. We make it possible for workers across North America to go home to their families injury-free each night, and we take a great deal of pride in that.

Our History

1880
Spinning business known as Harrap Brothers, producing wool yarns was founded in West Yorkshire, England.
1890
The business transferred to our current site in West Yorkshire, England where it has been for 126 years.
1934
Brand name ‘Sirdar’ meaning leader was adopted, following Lord Kitchener’s appointment as Sirdar of the Egyptian Army.
1989
Acquisition of Tilsa Yarns. Manufacturing hosiery and fashion yarns on site in Wakefield.
2001
Tilsatec established as a Technical Division of Sirdar PLC. Technical yarn and fabric manufacturing commenced.
2002
Tilsatec Rhino® brand created to market the range of cut resistant hand and arm protection and inherently FR workwear.
2004
First major Tilsatec customer acquired in the UK.
2006
Tilsatec awarded Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, Innovation category for the successful development and commercialization of the Tilsatec Rhino yarn. Award presented by HRH Princess Anne.
2008
Tilsatec North America established in Ontario, Canada to service the USA and Canada.
2010
Launch of Rhinoguard range of cut, puncture and needlestick PPE in Europe, USA and Canada.
2012
Restructuring of Tilsatec North America operations. HQ established in USA and 2 distribution hubs in US and Canada.
2013
Tilsatec North America established sales representation in Mexico.
2014
Launch of General Purpose Hand Protection range in USA, Canada and Mexico.
2015
Tilsatec acquired new manufacturing and warehousing facilites in Eupora, MS.
2016
Tilsatec continues expansion and coverage in USA.

News & Events

See what’s happening at Tilsatec.
Food Safe Gloves Explained

Food Safe Gloves Explained

In North America, “food safe” gloves aren’t defined by a single standard. Instead, they must meet requirements set by the FDA in the United States and comply with Canadian food contact regulations. This means manufacturers need to demonstrate that glove materials are safe for contact with food and won’t transfer harmful substances during normal use. Through controlled migration testing and material compliance, these gloves are designed to protect both food products and workers in demanding processing environments.

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Understanding ANSI/ISEA 138: A Simple Guide to Impact Protection Gloves

Understanding ANSI/ISEA 138: A Simple Guide to Impact Protection Gloves

ANSI/ISEA 138-2019 is a standard that tests and rates how well gloves protect against impacts on the back of the hand. Gloves are classified into three levels based on how much force they absorb, with higher levels offering greater protection. The guide emphasizes choosing the right balance between protection, comfort, and dexterity for the job.

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ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 Explained: A North American Guide to Essential Performance Levels and Test Methods for Hand Protection

ANSI/ISEA 105-2024 Explained: A North American Guide to Essential Performance Levels and Test Methods for Hand Protection

When looking into hand protection, have you come across ratings such as A5 or Level 3 and wondered what they actually mean?
This guide breaks it down. We explain ANSI/ISEA 105-2024, how cut, abrasion and puncture ratings are tested, what's changed in the latest update, and how to interpret those numbers when selecting hand protection for workplace hazards.
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