![]() No such rule requires insulated gloves while using insulated tools. The short answer per OSHA is…not necessarily. The question often arises, “Do I have to wear voltage-rated gloves when using insulated tools according to OSHA electrical standards?” The answer is found in an OSHA Interpretation letter addressing this very issue. NFPA 70E is clear on using voltage-rated gloves when inside the restricted boundary thus, when using insulated tools inside this boundary, the use of gloves is required if your company is enforcing NFPA 70E. Some Closing Thoughts: Gloves or No Gloves? Be sure to follow any manufacturer procedures to ensure that the tool is used within its ratings. The tool should also be cleaned as needed prior to use. Once a properly-rated tool is obtained, a pre-use inspection should be performed, looking for any damage to the tool. Most likely, the manufacturer used the same rubber sleeve as used in other tools to save cost, but this creates confusion to the electrical worker and casts doubts on the tool’s safety in electrically-energized environments. In this example, the user should obviously question whether or not the tool is in fact compliant with ASTM F-1505. However, the shank of the screwdriver says, “1000V 30057-2013 ASTM F1505-07 Warning: Destroy Tool if the Layer is Cut, Cracked, Punctured, Distorted, or Damaged in Any Way”. Will Not Protect Against Electrical Shock”. The rubber coating on the handle states “Warning: Not Insulated. A recent example of incomplete or incorrect labeling is included here: When purchasing insulated tools, be sure to look for all appropriate listings to ensure a quality tool. Once all requirements have been met, the tool is stamped appropriate to its ASTM F1505 compliance. These tests include a visual test, a dimensional test, and an impact test, to name a few. In addition to the above requirements, insulated tools must go through a series of performance tests to achieve a compliant rating. If rated for -40C, this information must be on the label.If the tool has interchangeable parts from various manufacturers, an additional symbol must be included on the tool.If the tool does not allow the full reference and year, it must at a minimum appear on the packaging ![]() The standard reference, including the year of the publication.1000V symbol, indicating the maximum AC voltage of the tool’s rating.The name of the manufacturer (trademark is allowed).Markings on ASTM F1505-compliant tools must include these things. Tools rated at this lower temperature are required to have a Category C rating. Some manufacturers opt to produce insulated tools in two layers, and subsequently are required by the standard to do so in varying colors to identify these layers.įor those working in cold environments, normal insulated tools are rated to -20C but are available to a temperature as low as -40C. ![]() This provides a wide margin of safety for the user. The tests include a dielectric strength test, which assesses the tool up to 10,000 volts, although the tools get a rating of 1000 volts use-voltage. Compliance with ASTM F1505įirst, let’s get a little insight into the testing to become compliant with ASTM F1505. ASTM F1505 is the “Standard Specification for Insulated and Insulating Hand Tools,” with the most recent version being F-1505-10, published in 2015. This is where ASTM F1505 comes in to play. ![]() Any tools brought in to this area must be insulated to the voltage level that the worker finds herself or himself exposed to. are removed, and then before crossing the restricted boundary, must don voltage-rated gloves with leather protectors. Insulated tools provide an added layer of protection for electrical workers who find themselves working within the restricted boundary mentioned in NFPA 70E (130.4(D)).Īs many electrical personnel are aware of, an electrician who is working in compliance with NFPA 70E cannot be inside of the restricted approach boundary unless all conductive material like jewelry, watches, cell phone, etc.
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