Linemans gloves

[rjmockster]

This may sound like a no brainer but at what line voltage is it considered dangerous to use rubber gloves? This was a test question at work that gave me 4 choices for an answer being a:1000 volts, b:2000volts, c:3000volts, or 4000volts. I picked 1000volts and got it wrong. Arent linemans gloves usually one layer of rubber gloves with leather on the outside anyway?

[ April 28, 2003, 12:29 PM: Message edited by: rjmockster ]

 

[bphgravity]

Re: Linemans gloves

Do you mean at what voltage should one consider using PPE or insulated gloves? In my opinion, anything over 30-volts nominal. Anything over that can kill you.

 

[bennie]

Re: Linemans gloves

I agree with Brian. However the use of rubber gloves is based on their proof test voltage and manufacturers instructions.

Class #0: Maximum voltage is 1 KV. Class #4: Maximum is 36 KV.

Class #4 is the highest voltage that can be worked with gloves. Above that, it is hot sticks and bare hands.

This information is from ANSI/ASTM D 120-77 standard for proof testing.

[ April 28, 2003, 12:29 PM: Message edited by: bennie ]

 

[rjmockster]

Re: Linemans gloves

Thanks guys, I appreciate this very much,

[ May 05, 2003, 10:43 AM: Message edited by: rjmockster ]

 

[bennie]

Re: Linemans gloves

The question is unfair. The correct answer is
"all the above".

Most utility companies and line contractors will not allow glove work above 4 KV.

 

[luke warmwater]

Re: Linemans gloves

I agree with Bennie. Our local power co. mandates the use of gloves. Another nearby power co. does not. Gloves at higher voltages can give you a false sense of security. One of my employees is in the Air-guard as a High voltage electrician and there policy is to stick everything gloveless. 4k should have been the answer.

 

[butch]

Re: Linemans gloves

In 1999 i was the maintenance electrician for the Air Force Base overseas every 6 months we were required to get a new set from the supply house no what the condition of the gloves were in.

 

[charlie]

Re: Linemans gloves

Our guys don't use sticks without gloves. Our UG guys use gloves, and sticks for hot switching. The OH guys use gloves and sleeves and either a bucket or a board for working 13.2 kV hot.

 

[bennie]

Re: Linemans gloves

The robot "Tomcat", is the way to perform live line maintenance in some situations. The lineman sits in a van at a control board. Visual is by fibre-optic cables.

 

[montecristo]

Re: Linemans gloves

In MA, gloving at some utilities is at 13.8 phase to phase W/rubber sleeves. gloves are changed every 30 days.

 

[zog]

Re: Linemans gloves

OSHA and the NFPA 70E require the use of gloves at >50V, depending on the distance from live parts.

Even when using hot sticks, gloves should be worn. Hot stacks that are not tested every 2 years may not be used as the primary means of shock protection. Even if your hotsticks are tested, gloves should be used. (Why take the chance).

As far as your test question is concerned, the correct answer should be 36kV, as Bennie stated.