Testing Criteria
As mentioned earlier in the module, electrical protective equipment must be subjected to periodic electrical tests. The test voltages and maximum time between tests must be in accordance with 1910.137, Table 1-4, Rubber Insulating Equipment, Voltage Requirements and Table I-5, Rubber Insulating Equipment, Test Intervals.
The test method used must reliably indicate whether the insulating equipment can withstand the involved voltages. Repaired insulating equipment must be retested before it can be used by employees.
Note: Standard electrical test methods that meet this requirement are provided in the national consensus standards of The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
If the insulating equipment fails to pass inspections or electrical tests, it may not be used by employees. Below is a list of exceptions.
- Rubber insulating line hose may be used in shorter lengths with the defective portion cut off.
- Rubber insulating blankets may be repaired using a compatible patch that results in physical and electrical properties equal to those of the blanket.
- Rubber insulating blankets may be salvaged by severing the defective area from the undamaged portion of the blanket. The resulting undamaged area may not be smaller than 22 inches by 22 inches (560 mm by 560 mm) for Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 blankets.
- Rubber insulating gloves and sleeves with minor physical defects, such as small cuts, tears, or punctures, may be repaired by the application of a compatible patch. Also, rubber insulating gloves and sleeves with minor surface blemishes may be repaired with a compatible liquid compound. The patched area must have electrical and physical properties equal to those of the surrounding material. Repairs to gloves are permitted only in the area between the wrist and the reinforced edge of the opening.
Certification
The employer must certify that equipment has been tested in accordance with the requirements of the standard. This certification must specify which equipment passed the test and the date on which the test was conducted.
Marking equipment and entering the results of the tests and the testing dates onto logs are two acceptable ways to meet this requirement.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-6. What must occur prior to any worker using electrical protective equipment that has been repaired?
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