Electrical Gloves | Insulated Electrical Gloves | Class 0 Electrical Gloves | Class 00 Electrical Gloves | Electrical Safety Gloves | Salisbury Electrical Gloves | Class 2 Electrical Gloves

Electrical gloves, also known as Insulated Electrical gloves or rubber gloves, are an essential piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers who come in contact with electrical energy. Electrical gloves are designed to protect workers from electric shock and burns while working with live electrical equipment.In this article, we'll take a closer look all aspects of electrical gloves & why its so important.

What are Electrical Safety Gloves?

Electrical safety gloves are gloves made from dielectric materials that are designed to protect workers from electric shock and burns while working with live electrical equipment. These gloves are typically made from a combination of natural and synthetic rubber, and are tested to ensure that they provide adequate protection against electrical shock.

Electrical gloves are available in different classes, depending on the level of protection they provide. The four classes of electrical gloves are:

1. Class 00: These electrical gloves provide a maximum use voltage of 500 volts AC and 750 volts DC. 
2. Class 0: These electrical gloves provide a maximum use voltage of 1,000 volts AC and 1,500 volts DC.
3. Class 1: These electrical gloves provide a maximum use voltage of 7,500 volts AC and 11,250 volts DC.
4. Class 2: These electrical gloves provide a maximum use voltage of 17,000 volts AC and 25,500 volts DC.

Popular Makes of Electrical Gloves

There are several popular makes and types of electrical safety gloves available on the market, each designed for different types of electrical work and protection requirements. Here are some of the most popular makes and types of electrical safety gloves:

Salisbury: Salisbury is a well-known brand in the electrical safety industry and offers a wide range of electrical safety gloves. They offer gloves in all four classes and provide different materials and styles for different types of electrical work.

Open / Download Salisbury Complete Catalog

Ansell: Ansell is another popular brand for electrical safety gloves. They offer a variety of gloves that meet different protection requirements, including gloves for arc flash protection.

Honeywell: Honeywell offers a range of electrical safety gloves that provide protection against arc flash, electrical shock, and burns. They also offer gloves in all four classes.

Magid Glove & Safety: Magid Glove & Safety offers a range of electrical safety gloves, including gloves with leather protectors for added durability and protection.

West Chester: West Chester offers a range of electrical safety gloves that are designed for various protection requirements, including gloves with added grip for improved dexterity and handling.

National Safety Apparel: National Safety Apparel offers a range of electrical safety gloves, including gloves designed for arc flash protection, high-voltage work, and low-voltage work.

Popular Makes type numbers according to Class

Class 00:

• Honeywell E001/9 Electrical Gloves
• Salisbury E011B/9 Insulating Rubber Gloves
• Ansell 00-200B Electrical Gloves

Class 0:

• Salisbury E011B/10 Insulating Rubber Gloves
• Magid Safety M011B10 Electrical Gloves
• Ansell 70-118-10 Electrical Gloves

Class 1:

• Salisbury E011B/11 Insulating Rubber Gloves
• Honeywell E011/11 Electrical Gloves
• Ansell 70-119-11 Electrical Gloves

Class 2:

• Salisbury E011B/12 Insulating Rubber Gloves
• Honeywell E021/12 Electrical Gloves
• National Safety Apparel C02GI2 Class 2 Electrical Gloves

How to Measure Your Hand for Electrical Gloves

To choose the right size of electrical gloves, you need to measure your hand properly. Follow these steps to measure your hand for electrical gloves:

1. Place your dominant hand on a flat surface with your fingers slightly apart.
2. Measure the circumference of your hand at its widest point (usually across the knuckles).
3. Round up the measurement to the nearest half-inch.
4. Use the following table to determine your glove size based on your hand circumference:

How do Electrical Safety Gloves Work?

Electrical safety gloves work by providing a barrier between the worker and the electrical current. The rubber material used in the gloves is an insulator, which means that it does not conduct electricity. This prevents the electrical current from passing through the glove and into the worker's body.

In order to provide maximum protection, electrical gloves must be properly maintained and tested. The gloves should be inspected before each use to ensure that there are no defects or damage to the gloves. If there are any defects or damage to the gloves, they should be taken out of service and replaced.

In addition, electrical gloves must be tested regularly to ensure that they provide adequate protection against electrical shock. The gloves are typically tested using a device called a dielectric tester, which applies a high voltage to the glove to determine its dielectric strength.

Selection Guide of Electrical Gloves | Insulated Electrical Gloves 

When selecting electrical gloves, it's important to consider several factors to ensure that you choose the right glove for the task at hand. Here is a selection guide for electrical safety gloves:

Determine the voltage rating of the equipment: The voltage rating of the equipment being worked on will determine the class of glove required. For example, Class 00 gloves are rated for use on equipment up to 500 volts AC, while Class 4 gloves are rated for use on equipment up to 36,000 volts AC.

Consider the material of the glove: Electrical safety gloves are made from several different materials, including natural rubber, neoprene, and polyurethane. The material chosen will depend on the type of work being performed and any specific protection requirements.

Choose the appropriate size: Electrical safety gloves come in different sizes, and it's important to choose a glove that fits properly to ensure maximum dexterity and protection.

Consider any additional protection requirements: Some gloves are designed for specific types of work or provide additional protection features, such as leather protectors or added grip.

Follow industry standards and regulations: Electrical safety gloves must meet specific industry standards and regulations, and it's important to ensure that the gloves chosen meet these requirements to ensure adequate protection.

Inspect and maintain the gloves: Once selected, electrical safety gloves should be inspected before each use to ensure that they are free from defects and damage. Additionally, gloves should be properly maintained and tested periodically to ensure continued protection.

Why are Electrical Safety Gloves Important?

Electrical safety gloves are important because they provide protection against electric shock and burns. Electric shock can cause serious injuries, including heart arrhythmias, muscle contractions, and burns. In severe cases, electric shock can even be fatal.

In addition to protecting workers from electric shock, electrical gloves can also prevent damage to electrical equipment. When working with live electrical equipment, it's important to ensure that the equipment is not damaged or short-circuited, which can cause power outages or damage to the equipment.

Finally, electrical safety gloves are often required by law or by industry standards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that electrical gloves be used when working on electrical equipment that is rated at 50 volts or higher. In addition, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires that electrical gloves be tested every six months to ensure that they meet the appropriate standards.

Electrical Safety Gloves Healthiness Checking Method

It's important to regularly check electrical safety gloves for any damage or defects to ensure that they continue to provide adequate protection. Here are the steps to check the healthiness of electrical safety gloves:

Check for any visible damage: Inspect the gloves visually for any cuts, punctures, tears, or other damage that could compromise their integrity.

Check for any discoloration: Discoloration or stains on the gloves could indicate that they have been exposed to chemicals or other substances that could weaken the material.

Check for any signs of wear: Check the gloves for any signs of wear, such as thinning or cracking in the material.

Test for air leaks: To test for air leaks, hold the gloves up to your ear and inflate them with air. Listen for any sounds of air escaping, which could indicate a hole or puncture in the material.

Perform a dielectric test: A dielectric test should be performed periodically to ensure that the gloves continue to meet the appropriate industry standards. This test involves placing the gloves in a bath of water and applying a high voltage to them while measuring the current flow.

Follow manufacturer recommendations: The manufacturer of the electrical safety gloves should provide specific recommendations for inspection, maintenance, and testing. It's important to follow these recommendations to ensure that the gloves continue to provide adequate protection.

Shelf life of electrical safety gloves

The shelf life of electrical safety gloves varies depending on the type of glove and the manufacturer's recommendations. In general, most electrical safety gloves have a shelf life of up to five years if they are properly stored and maintained.

It's important to note that electrical safety gloves should be inspected and tested regularly, regardless of their age. Gloves that show signs of damage, wear, or aging should be replaced immediately, even if they are within their recommended shelf life. Electrical safety gloves should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and any sources of ozone. They should be stored flat or rolled to prevent creasing, and should never be folded

The specific shelf life of electrical safety gloves can be found in the manufacturer's instructions and should be followed closely to ensure that the gloves provide adequate protection. Additionally, gloves that have been stored for an extended period of time should be tested before use to ensure that they continue to meet industry standards.

Conclusion

Electrical safety gloves are an essential piece of personal protective equipment for workers who come in contact with electrical energy. These gloves provide protection against electric shock and burns, and can also prevent damage to electrical equipment. When using electrical gloves, it's important to ensure that they are properly maintained and tested to ensure that they provide adequate protection. By following best practices for electrical safety, workers can ensure that they stay safe and healthy on the job.

FAQs

Q: What are electrical safety gloves?

A: Electrical safety gloves are specialized gloves designed to provide protection for workers who perform electrical work. They are made from materials such as rubber or other insulating materials that prevent electrical current from passing through the glove and into the body.

Q: What is the purpose of electrical safety gloves?

A: The purpose of electrical safety gloves is to protect workers from electric shock or electrocution while working on or around live electrical equipment.

Q: What are the different classes of electrical safety gloves?

A: There are six different classes of electrical safety gloves, ranging from Class 00 to Class 4. The class of glove required will depend on the voltage rating of the equipment being worked on.

Q: How do I choose the right size electrical safety glove?

A: To choose the right size electrical safety glove, measure the circumference of your hand at its widest point and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart. It's important to choose a glove that fits properly to ensure maximum dexterity and protection.

Q: How often should electrical safety gloves be replaced?

A: Electrical safety gloves should be replaced every six months, or sooner if they are damaged, defective, or fail a dielectric test. Additionally, gloves should be replaced immediately if they are punctured, cut, or torn.

Q: How do I clean electrical safety gloves?

A: Electrical safety gloves should be cleaned using warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they can damage the gloves.

Q: How should I store electrical safety gloves?

A: Electrical safety gloves should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and any sources of ozone. They should be stored flat or rolled to prevent creasing, and should never be folded.