Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as electrical insulating gloves and sleeves need to be inspected to make sure that they are truly protective for workers.
Inspections:
(1) initial assessment (before first use)
(2) before and after use
(3) periodic, especially when there is reason to suspect damage or after minor repairs
Initial:
(1) meet specifications
(2) seamless
(3) free of gross defects
(4) air tested for leaks
(5) electrical test using proof test voltage and current as specified for class of glove
Before use:
(1) look for breaks, holes, cuts and tears
(2) other forms of damage including embedded objects
(3) air test for leaks
(4) electrical test if not checked within past 6 months for gloves and 12 months for sleeves
After use:
(1) look for breaks, holes, cuts and tears
(2) look for other signs of damage including embedded objects
Periodic inspections:
(1) ozone damage, especially for Type I gloves
(2) UV light damage, especially for Type I gloves
(3) breaks, holes, cuts and tears
(4) degradation with swelling, softening, hardening, or stickiness
(5) other damage including embedded objects or chemicals
(6) storage container and conditions
(7) air test for leaks
(8) electrical test using proof test voltage and current as specified for class of glove (every 6 months for gloves, every 12 months for sleeves, after repair)
(9) markings confined to cuff portion of glove
Irregularities in the material related to the manufacture are permissible. These will blend into a smooth slope as the material is stretched.
An electrical glove showing significant damage should be disposed of.
Tape or coverings should not be applied in an attempt to hide the defect.
Minor damage can be repaired with a compatible patch.
