Facilities that have qualified electrical workers MUST have glove testing/replacement program and most do; however, there is always the question as to “when does the clock start on the testing frequency”? Gloves that have been issued AND removed from their packaging the clock starts right away; however, gloves that remain in the manufacturer’s packaging the gloves have sort of a grace period of 12 months before they have to be tested. We find this in the footnote in 1910.137 Table I-5.
1910.137(c)(2)(viii) Electrical protective equipment shall be subjected to periodic electrical tests. Test voltages and the maximum intervals between tests shall be in accordance with Table I-4 and Table I-5.
| TABLE I-5-RUBBER INSULATING EQUIPMENT, TEST INTERVALS | |
| Type of equipment | When to test |
|
Rubber insulating line hose…. Rubber insulating covers …… Rubber insulating blankets … Rubber insulating gloves …... Rubber insulating sleeves …. |
Upon indication that insulating value is suspect and after repair. Upon indication that insulating value is suspect and after repair. Before first issue and every 12 months thereafter; 1 upon indication that insulating value is suspect; and after repair. Before first issue and every 6 months thereafter; 1 upon indication that insulating value is suspect; after repair; and after use without protectors. Before first issue and every 12 months thereafter; 1 upon indication that insulating value is suspect; and after repair. |
1 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 when we receive our voltage rated gloves from the manufacturer, they arrived tested. As long as they are not issued for service, the gloves may remain in their SEALED packaging for up to 12 months before they have to be tested.