Electrical Lineworker how-to
How to Inspect Rubber Insulating Gloves
Rubber gloves are your primary protection against electric shock. Inspect them before every use and follow the manufacturer’s and your employer’s procedures.
Rubber gloves are your primary protection against electric shock. Inspect them before every use and follow the manufacturer’s and your employer’s procedures. In short: check; visually; roll, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Check the glove’s voltage class label and the last electrical test date.
Visually inspect inside and out for cuts, punctures, embedded objects, ozone cracking and swelling.
Roll the cuff tightly to trap air in the glove (or use a glove inflator).
Squeeze the inflated glove and listen and feel for escaping air.
Stretch small areas and look closely at the fingers and crotches between fingers.
Inspect leather protectors for damage and make sure they fit correctly over the rubber gloves.
Remove any damaged glove from service immediately and tag it.
Safety reminders for electrical lineworkers
- Maintain minimum approach distances and use properly rated rubber goods
- Treat all lines as energized until tested and grounded
- Use fall protection when climbing and working aloft
- Follow switching, clearance and lockout procedures exactly
Key terms
Distribution line · Transmission line · Primary and secondary · Transformer · Insulator · Crossarm: see the full electrical lineworker glossary.