Electrical Safety Gloves

About Electrical Safety Gloves

Electrical safety gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for electricians, electrical engineers, and anyone working with or near live electrical systems. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade electrical insulating gloves from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, and ITL, designed to provide critical protection against electric shock by creating a dielectric barrier between the user and potentially dangerous voltages. These specialised gloves are manufactured from natural rubber or synthetic compounds and are rigorously tested according to BS EN 60903 standards, with Class 0 gloves offering protection up to 1000V AC—making them ideal for domestic and commercial electrical work at 240v mains voltage.

Unlike standard work gloves, electrical safety gloves feature extended gauntlet cuffs for additional forearm protection and must undergo regular inspection and periodic dielectric testing every six months. MyToolShed also offers complementary products including dedicated storage bags to protect gloves from UV light, ozone exposure, and physical damage—factors that can compromise their insulating properties and overall safety performance.

Applications

• Electricians and Electrical Contractors: Essential PPE for sparkies working on domestic, commercial, and industrial electrical installations involving live circuits
• Electrical Engineers: Maintaining high-voltage equipment, switchgear, and distribution systems in industrial facilities
• Facilities Maintenance Teams: Responsible for electrical systems in commercial buildings, factories, and public sector facilities
• Renewable Energy Installers: Solar panel fitters working with DC voltage systems and inverters
• Rail and Transport Workers: Engineers working on electrified railway systems and underground networks
• Utilities Workers: Power line maintenance, substation work, and metering equipment installation
• Automotive Technicians: Working on electric and hybrid vehicles with high-voltage battery systems
• Testing and Inspection Engineers: Conducting electrical installation condition reports (EICRs) and PAT testing

Choosing The Right Electrical Safety Gloves

Voltage Rating: Select gloves with an appropriate class rating for your maximum voltage exposure. Class 0 gloves (rated to 1000V AC) are suitable for most UK electrical work at 240v single-phase or 400v three-phase, providing an essential safety margin.

Compliance and Standards: Ensure gloves meet BS EN 60903 standards. All electrical safety gloves available at MyToolShed.co.uk comply with British and European safety regulations.

Size and Fit: Properly fitted gloves maintain dexterity whilst ensuring complete hand coverage. Measure your hand according to manufacturer sizing charts to find the correct size.

Gauntlet Length: Longer gauntlets offer better forearm protection when reaching into electrical enclosures and reduce the risk of accidental removal.

Storage and Maintenance: Invest in a dedicated storage bag to protect gloves from physical damage and environmental factors that degrade rubber. Factor in the cost of periodic electrical testing every six months.

Safety Information

Pre-Use Inspection: Always inspect gloves before each use for cuts, punctures, tears, or degradation. Perform an air test by rolling the glove to trap air inside and checking for leaks. Withdraw any damaged gloves from service immediately.

Periodic Testing Required: Electrical safety gloves must undergo dielectric testing at least every six months under UK regulations. Keep accurate testing records and never use gloves overdue for testing.

Proper Storage is Critical: Store gloves away from direct sunlight, ozone sources, petroleum products, and sharp objects. Use a dedicated storage bag in a cool, dry location to prevent premature degradation.

Know Your Limitations: These gloves provide electrical insulation only—they don't protect against arc flash or mechanical hazards. Consider leather protector over-gloves for work involving sharp edges or rough surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do electrical safety gloves need testing?

Under UK regulations, electrical insulating gloves require dielectric testing at least every six months. Gloves used in demanding environments may need testing every three months. Always perform visual inspection and an air test before each use, and maintain detailed testing records with dates and results.

Can Class 0 gloves be used for domestic electrical work?

Yes, Class 0 electrical safety gloves (rated to 1000V AC) are entirely suitable for domestic electrical work at 240v mains voltage and 400v three-phase installations. They're the most common choice for electricians working on residential and light commercial projects, providing an appropriate safety margin for standard UK electrical systems.

How should I store electrical safety gloves?

Store gloves in a dedicated storage bag in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ozone-generating equipment. Keep them away from petroleum products, solvents, and sharp objects. Never fold or compress gloves tightly as this can cause cracking. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the dielectric properties of the rubber material.