The growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) increases the risk of electric shop in maintenance facilities. Be sure to provide your staff with the appropriate rubber insulating gloves.
The high-voltage systems on electric vehicles present a serious shock risk. In addition to training your staff in safety procedures, make sure they have the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including rubber insulating gloves. (See OSHA standard CFR 1910.137.)
What are they and how are they rated?
Rubber insulating gloves are designed to protect employees from electric current and are rated by the amount of voltage they are effective to protect employees:
Class Maximum AC/DC Voltage
00 500
0 1,000
1 7,500
2 17,000
3 26,500
4 36,000
Which gloves are right for my service center?
Most manufacturers recommend rubber insulating gloves rated, at minimum, Class 0, but be sure to check your OEM’s guidance. Also, fit each employee with the right size of gloves.
What sort of maintenance is required?
OSHA requires very specific measures for proper glove care and maintenance. I can’t cover all the details in this post, but here are a few tips:
- Storage: Gloves should be stored in cool, dark and dry conditions, in sealed containers.
- Inspections: OSHA requires a detailed, manual glove inspection prior to each use. We recommend using a checklist, such as the one we provide.
- Shelf life and certification: gloves must be placed into service within 12 months of production, or be recertified. After 6 months of use, gloves must be recertified or replaced.
Be sure to use the manufacturer’s guidance on proper safety processes. And as always, if you’re a KPA client, consult with your safety engineer about the training, safety processes and PPE needed for these vehicles. Or feel free to contact us regarding our environment and safety compliance services at (866) 356-1735.
Tags: EVs, gloves, personal protective equipment, PPE