Insulated Tools, Gloves & Protective Equipment
Voltage-rated gloves, glove testing intervals, insulated hand tools, rubber insulating matting, blankets, test instrument ratings, and inspection.
- Identify the six classes of rubber insulating gloves and their voltage ratings
- State the testing interval for rubber insulating gloves
- Describe inspection requirements for insulated hand tools
- Explain CAT ratings for test instruments and their application
- Describe the purpose and requirements for rubber insulating blankets and matting
Lección 1
Voltage-Rated Gloves & Testing
Rubber Insulating Glove Classes
Rubber insulating gloves are the primary hand protection for electrical workers. They are classified by maximum use voltage into six classes:
| Class | AC Max Use Voltage | DC Max Use Voltage | Color Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00 | 500 V | 750 V | Beige |
| 0 | 1,000 V | 1,500 V | Red |
| 1 | 7,500 V | 11,250 V | White |
| 2 | 17,000 V | 25,500 V | Yellow |
| 3 | 26,500 V | 39,750 V | Green |
| 4 | 36,000 V | 54,000 V | Orange |
Arc-Rated Protectors Required (2024 Update)
Arc-rated protectors tested per ASTM F3258 must be worn over rubber insulating gloves to prevent physical damage. The 2024 edition of NFPA 70E removed the word "leather" from all protector specifications - the outer protective layer is now evaluated on performance metrics, not material composition. Protectors that do not meet ASTM F3258 are not acceptable regardless of material.
Testing Requirements
Rubber insulating gloves must be electrically tested before first use and at regular intervals:
- Testing interval: Not exceeding 6 months from the date of the previous test
- Before first use: Must be tested if not tested within the previous 12 months
- After damage or suspected damage: Must be retested before reuse
- Air inflation test: Required before each use to check for holes and tears
Daily Inspection
Before each use, workers must visually inspect gloves and perform an air inflation test:
- Roll the cuff toward the fingers to trap air
- Check the entire surface for cracks, cuts, holes, or embedded objects
- Listen and feel for air leaks
- Inspect arc-rated protectors (ASTM F3258) for wear, damage, or contamination
Any glove that fails inspection must be removed from service immediately.
Rubber insulating gloves come in six classes (00 through 4) rated by maximum voltage. They must be electrically tested at intervals not exceeding 6 months and visually inspected with an air inflation test before each use. Arc-rated protectors tested per ASTM F3258 are required over rubber insulating gloves.