Rubber insulating gloves, critical personal protective equipment (PPE) for electrical work, require regular testing to ensure their protective integrity. According to OSHA's Table I-5, these gloves must be tested at specific intervals and under certain conditions.
Key Testing Requirements for Rubber Insulating Gloves
The testing schedule for rubber insulating gloves is mandated to ensure they provide adequate protection against electrical hazards. The primary times when these gloves require testing are:
- Before First Issue: Ensuring the gloves meet safety standards right out of the box.
- Every Six Months Thereafter: A regular, recurring test to monitor their condition over time.
Beyond this routine schedule, additional testing is required in specific circumstances:
- Upon indication that insulating value is suspect: If there's any visual damage, physical anomaly, or other reason to doubt the glove's insulating capability.
- After repair: If a glove has been repaired, its insulating properties must be verified.
- After use without protectors: While not always the case, if the gloves are used without proper protectors (like leather covers) in a way that could compromise their integrity, testing may be required.
Summary of Testing Intervals
Here's a simple overview of the required testing times:
| Testing Condition | Frequency / Requirement |
|---|---|
| New Gloves | Before first issue |
| Routine Maintenance | Every six months |
| Suspected Damage/Compromise | Upon indication that insulating value is suspect |
| Post-Repair | After repair |
| Certain Unprotected Use Conditions | After use without protectors (if applicable/required) |
Adhering to this testing schedule, as outlined by regulations such as OSHA standards, is vital for worker safety when dealing with electrical systems. Regular testing helps identify gloves that may have been damaged or degraded over time, preventing potential electrical shocks or injuries.
