One of the more common deficiencies that we find in our audits is the lack of electrical gloves testing. 1910.137, Table I-5 establishes the testing frequency for these gloves; however, the confusion comes with the “footnote” which states…
If the insulating equipment has been electrically tested but not issued for service, the insulating equipment may not be placed into service unless it has been electrically tested within the previous 12 months.
So OSHA has issued an LOI to clarify this footnote:
Question: A pair of rubber insulating gloves are tested and then issued for service for the first time. Six months later they are re-tested. After the gloves have been tested again, do the gloves have up to 12 months to be placed back into service? Or do the gloves have to be tested every six months after the first issue?
Response: Under 29 CFR 1910.137(c)(2)(viii) and Table I-5, once rubber insulating gloves have been issued for service for the first time, they must be tested every six months. Please note, that even if the gloves have been tested within six months, they must also be tested upon indication that the insulating value is suspect, after repair, and after use without protectors.
CLICK HERE for the LOI