Electrical Shock Proof Hand Glove

Quick Answer: The Electrical Shock Proof Hand Glove listing is for electrical insulating gloves made of rubber, shown in the listing photograph as red gauntlet-length gloves. They put a layer of insulating rubber between the hands and live conductors, as one part of safe working on or near electrical equipment within the voltage class marked on the glove.

How Insulating Gloves Protect

Rubber is an electrical insulator, and a glove moulded from it to a controlled thickness stops current passing from a live part through the hand to earth, up to the voltage the glove was made and tested for. Insulating gloves are therefore produced in classes, each marked on the cuff with its maximum use voltage. The listing does not state the class of this glove, and that marking is what decides whether it can be used for a given task, so read it before issuing the gloves.

The long gauntlet in the photograph covers the wrist and forearm, which reach towards live parts along with the hand. Rubber insulating gloves are easily damaged by cuts, punctures and abrasion, so in industry they are normally worn under leather protector gloves that take the wear. Heat, sunlight, ozone from electrical equipment and oils also age the rubber, so storage matters as much as use.

Gloves are the last line of defence. The safe method remains to isolate the supply, lock it off and prove it dead with a suitable voltage tester before touching conductors. A neon screwdriver tester is only an indicator and is not a reliable way to prove a circuit dead.

Inspection and Storage

• Before every use, roll the cuff tightly towards the fingers to trap air, then look and listen for leaks, cuts or thin spots.
• Store flat or hanging, cuff down, in a bag or box away from sunlight, heat, oil and electrical equipment; never fold or crease them.
• Wash with mild soap and water, rinse and dry at room temperature, and dust with talc if the glove maker recommends it.
• Follow your employer’s electrical safety rules for periodic retesting, and withdraw any glove that fails inspection.

Where They Are Used

• Electrician trainee practicals in ITIs and polytechnics, within the glove’s voltage class.
• Maintenance of distribution boards and panels after isolation, as an added layer of protection.
• Electrical engineering laboratories working with mains-powered rigs.
• Teaching about insulators and conductors with a real item of electrical PPE.

Specifications

Why Choose LabEquip

ITIs, polytechnics and estates electrical teams buy insulating gloves in several sizes and specify the voltage class to match their work. LabEquip lists them in General Lab Products, and the class and sizes should be settled through the contact page before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What voltage are these gloves rated for?

Insulating gloves are made in voltage classes marked on the cuff, and this listing does not state the class. Use the gloves only for work within the maximum use voltage marked on them, and confirm the class at enquiry if you are buying for a specific task.

Why wear leather gloves over insulating gloves?

Rubber insulating gloves are easily cut or punctured, and a pinhole can let current through. Leather protectors take the abrasion and sharp edges, while the rubber glove underneath provides the insulation.

How do I air-test an insulating glove?

Hold the cuff and roll it tightly towards the fingers to trap air, then squeeze gently. Look and listen for escaping air, and check the whole surface for cuts, cracks, swelling or sticky patches. Do not use a glove that fails.

Can insulating gloves replace isolating the supply?

No. The safe method is to switch off, lock off and prove the circuit dead before starting work. Gloves add protection against mistakes and nearby live parts; they are not permission to work live.

What damages rubber insulating gloves?

Sunlight, heat, ozone from electrical equipment, oils, solvents and folding all age or weaken the rubber. Store the gloves clean and dry in their bag or box, flat or hanging, away from these sources.

Should electrical gloves be tested periodically?

Yes. Beyond the check before each use, insulating gloves are normally retested electrically at intervals set by the employer’s safety rules or the glove maker. Record the test dates so out-of-date gloves are not issued.

Last Updated: September 2026