Frequently Asked Questions

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Does Hanover Testing Labs electrically test their rubber gloves?

Yes, Hanover Testing Labs electrically tests each glove in house.

How often do I have to have my electrical gloves retested?

Rubber insulating gloves issued for service should be tested every 6 months. For further information review ASTM F496.

How long can I keep rubber insulating gloves on my shelf? When do I need to have the insulating rubber gloves retested?

Gloves that have been electrically tested but not issued for service have a shelf life of no more than 12 months before requiring a retest. Once issued into service, they must be retested every 6 months. See ASTM F496, 7.1 for more information.

I have linemen gloves that are soiled and still have a valid test date? Are the gloves still good? How can I clean them?

Soiled or dirty gloves need to be cleaned properly and then inspected for chemical damage. Rubber insulating gloves can be cleaned by using warm water and a non-detergent or non-petroleum-based cleaner. Be sure this cleaner does not contain any abrasives. After the gloves are cleaned and dried, carefully inspect the gloves for any sign of chemical or petroleum damage. These will show as either a hard spot or loss of elasticity in most cases.

To what standards do you test each rubber product?

We test all rubber products to all applicable ASTM and ANSI standards according to the type and class of rubber product in question. We require each rubber product to meet the most stringent of any posted standard.

What is the typical turnaround time for rubber testing?

Our quoted lead-time is two weeks from the date of receipt, but we are almost always much faster than that.

How often do I need test rubber insulating blankets?

Rubber insulating blankets issued for service should be tested once a year. See ASTM D479 8.1 for more information.

How often do I need to test line hose?

Rubber Line Hose issued for service should be tested once a year. See ASTM D479 8.1 for more information.

How often do I need to test ground sets?

Grounding sets and jumper sets issued for service should be tested in regularly scheduled time intervals to ensure that defective ground sets and jumper sets are detected and removed from service. See ASTM F2249, 4.4 for more information.

How often do I need to replace my leather protectors?

Leather protectors should be replaced when they are soiled with dirt, grease, oils, and/or have embedded objects, cuts, tears, or other blemishes that may compromise the safety of the gloves.

Do I need to wear leather protectors over insulating rubber gloves for applications requiring dexterity?

ASTM and OSHA allow the use of rubber gloves without leather protectors under certain conditions, but this is not recommended. This also changes the testing schedule for the insulating rubber gloves. See OSHA 1910.137(b)(vii)(A)(B) and ASTM F496, 8.7.4 for more information. However, NFPA 70E does not allow the use of rubber insulating gloves without leather protectors. NFPA 70E 130.7 (C)(6)(a) or NFPA 70E 130.7 (C)(13)(c)(2).

What is the difference between the yellow/black overshoes and the red/black overshoes?

The yellow/black dielectric boots are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM F2412 & F2413 and these standards require an electrical dry sample test of the sole. Salisbury's red/black dielectric boots are manufactured to meet the new ASTM F1117 standard and are 100% tested in accordance with the electrical hazard requirements of ASTM F1116.

Why are the labels on rubber gloves different colors?

The color indicates the class of the glove. This makes it easier for the glove wearer to determine the class of glove that they have. (Refer to the ASTM Rubber Glove & Sleeve Labeling Chart - available on our website).

Can I write on the gloves with a pen/marker so I can keep track of them?

Yes, as long as the ink used does not affect the dielectric properties of the gloves. See ASTM 496, 11.2 for more information.

What happens if a rubber item fails one or more tests?

All failed rubber will be defaced by cutting the cuff of the glove and returned upon request. Most often our customers prefer to have their failed items disposed of.

What is the difference between Type I and Type II gloves?

Type I gloves are made of natural rubber and are not considered to be resistant to ozone. Type II gloves are made of a synthetic rubber (EPDM) and are ozone resistant.

What type of marker should I use to mark my rubber gloves?

A Sharpie or any other brand of marker that uses a mild solvent in their ink. A soft tip should be used to prevent damage to the gloves. The marking should be placed as near to the bead on the cuff as possible.

Are rescue sticks required to be periodically electrically tested?

Yes, see OSHA 1910.269(j) for more information.

I know the ASTM standard governs manufacturing, testing and retesting requirements for insulated rubber gloves, sleeves and blankets, but does the OSHA standard also apply?

OSHA enforces ASTM requirements for manufacturing, testing and retesting of gloves in OSHA 1910.137.

What are your available shipping methods?

UPS, USPS, Common Freight Carrier, and FedEx.

We also offer pick-up and delivery services within 120 miles of our facility for the safe handling of your products.

Frequently Asked Questions

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