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.

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Ensuring proper hand protection against electrical shock and arc flash hazards is vital for worker safety. This podcast explores advancements in protective gloves, safe work practices, testing methods, and international standards.

Key Takeaways:

• Evolution of Hand Protection: From basic gloves to advanced multihazard protective gear.
• Standards and Testing: Overview of ASTM D120-22 specifications.
• Safe Work Practices: Integrating proper glove use into safety protocols.
• International Standards Updates: Recent developments in global standards.

FAQs:

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

Rubber Insulating Gloves: Protect against electrical shock, classified by voltage rating.

Protector Gloves: Provide mechanical and thermal protection, now available in advanced materials.

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

• Mechanical Protection: Prevents punctures and cuts.
• Thermal Protection: Shields against heat and flames.
• Grip Enhancement: Improves handling in challenging conditions.

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

• Shock Hazard: Use gloves rated for appropriate voltage.
• Arc Flash Hazard: Select gloves with sufficient arc ratings.
• Mechanical Hazards: Consider cut and abrasion resistance.
• Environmental Conditions: Assess factors like temperature and chemicals.
• Dexterity Requirements: Choose gloves that allow safe, efficient task performance.

4. How often should rubber insulating gloves be tested?

OSHA mandates electrical testing every six months per ASTM D120, with daily visual inspections before use.

5. What are the recent advancements in hand protection for electrical work?

• New Materials: Improved dexterity, grip, and cut resistance.
• Multi-Hazard Protection: Gloves that combine insulation with other safety features.
• Enhanced Comfort and Fit: Innovations for better usability and compliance.

6. What are the challenges of hand protection in clean room environments?

Non-leather gloves, such as those conforming to ASTM F3258, address contamination concerns while maintaining protection.

7. How do international standards compare to US standards for hand protection?

IEC 60903 lacks thickness requirements but aligns more closely with US practices through updates like IEC 63232.

8. What should workers do when exposed to both shock and arc flash hazards?

Combine rubber insulating gloves with arc-rated protector gloves to meet OSHA and ASTM standards for dual protection.

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