How to Test Rubber Insulating Gloves
Electrical workers wear rubber insulating gloves to protect themselves on the job. These gloves prevent accidental shocks and electrical currents from occurring. They are the most important article of personal protective equipment that electrical workers wear, according to Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution. This organization classifies rubber insulated gloves by the level of voltage protection they provide. Even though these gloves protect you on the job, it is still important to inspect them properly prior to use. You may have to test them out to ensure that they are in the proper condition.
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Instructions
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Inspect the gloves for any damage before use. Look for rips, tears, holes, cuts, UV deterioration or chemical deterioration. Examine the gloves and sleeves for any damage from chemical contamination, particularly petroleum products.
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Look for any swelling within the contaminated area of the glove. If so, turn it in for inspection, cleaning and electrical testing.
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Perform an air test. Fill the glove with air, manually or with an inflator. Once inflated, check the glove for leakage. Listen for escaping air or feel the glove for any air releasing.
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Measure the size of the glove after the air test. Gloves and sleeves should not expand more than 1.5 times their normal size for type one gloves and 1.25 more than their normal size for type two gloves. Repeat the test with the glove turned inside out.
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Tips & Warnings
Wear leather protective gloves over insulated rubber gloves to protect against cuts, abrasions and scratches.
To maintain safety, retest your gloves before each use.
Properly store and care for your gloves.
References
- Photo Credit electrical image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
