Article Review - Hand Protection for Electrical Shock and Arc Flash Hazards

Hand Protection for Electrical Shock and Arc Flash Hazards

Written by Hugh Hoagland and Zarheer Jooma, BSEE, M.S. on October 1, 2024. Posted in Worksite Safety.

Read the article here: https://incident-prevention.com/blog/hand-protection-for-electrical-shock-and-arc-flash-hazards/

 

Ensuring proper hand protection against electrical shock and arc flash hazards is vital for worker safety. This podcast delves into the evolution of protective gloves, highlighting advancements in multihazard protection, safe work practices, glove testing methods, and updates on international standards.

 

Key Takeaways:

•Evolution of Hand Protection: Transition from basic leather gloves to advanced multihazard protective gear.

•Standards and Testing: Overview of ASTM D120-22 specifications and glove testing procedures.

•Safe Work Practices: Importance of integrating proper glove use into daily safety protocols.

•International Standards Updates: Recent developments in global standards for electrical safety gloves.

 

FAQs: 1. What are the main types of hand protection used for electrical work?

There are two main types of hand protection used for electrical work:

Rubber Insulating Gloves: These gloves are designed to protect against electrical shock. They are made of specialized rubber that is electrically strong and tested to withstand high voltages. They are classified according to their maximum AC use voltage, ranging from Class 00 (500V) to Class 4 (36kV).

Protector Gloves: These gloves are worn over rubber insulating gloves to provide mechanical and thermal protection. Traditionally made of leather, they are now available in various materials and designs, including cut-resistant fabrics and composite materials, thanks to standards like ASTM F3258.

2. Why are protector gloves worn over rubber insulating gloves?

Protector gloves serve several important purposes:

• Mechanical Protection: They protect the rubber insulating gloves from punctures, cuts, and abrasions, which can compromise their electrical integrity.
• Thermal Protection: They offer protection against heat and flames, particularly important in arc flash situations.
• Grip Enhancement: Leather protector gloves can improve grip, especially in oily conditions. Newer materials and designs can offer even better grip and dexterity.

3. What are the key considerations for selecting hand protection for electrical work?

Choosing appropriate hand protection involves assessing the specific hazards present in the work environment:

• Shock Hazard: If a shock hazard exists, rubber insulating gloves with the appropriate voltage rating are mandatory.
• Arc Flash Hazard: If an arc flash hazard is present, arc-rated gloves are required. The arc rating should match or exceed the potential incident energy calculated for the task.
• Mechanical Hazards: Consider the need for cut, puncture, and abrasion resistance based on the work environment.
• Environmental Conditions: Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of chemicals should influence glove selection.
• Dexterity Requirements: Choose gloves that allow for sufficient dexterity to perform the task safely and efficiently.

4. How often should rubber insulating gloves be test