VoltShield

Knowledge Base

Resources & Guides

Everything you need to select, size, and maintain your high-voltage insulating gloves. Use these guides to ensure you have the right protection for the job.

Voltage Class Selection Guide

Choosing the right glove class starts with one question: What is the maximum voltage you will be exposed to? Match your exposure voltage to the table below. Always select a class that meets or exceeds your maximum exposure.

Quick Decision Tree

Residential / low-voltage control (≤500V)? → Class 00

Industrial 480V / secondary distribution (≤1,000V)? → Class 0

Primary distribution / pad-mount transformers (≤7,500V)? → Class 1

Distribution feeders / 15kV switchgear (≤17,000V)? → Class 2

Sub-transmission / 25kV systems (≤26,500V)? → Class 3

Transmission / 34.5kV class (≤36,000V)? → Class 4

ClassMax AC VoltageMax DC VoltageTypical Applications
Class 00500V750VLow-voltage control circuits, residential wiring
Class 01,000V1,500VSecondary distribution, industrial 480V systems
Class 17,500V11,250VPrimary distribution, pad-mount transformers
Class 217,000V25,500VDistribution feeders, 15kV class switchgear
Class 326,500V39,750VSub-transmission lines, 25kV systems
Class 436,000V54,000VTransmission lines, 34.5kV class systems

Glove Sizing Chart

Proper fit is essential for both safety and dexterity. A glove that is too tight restricts movement and increases fatigue. A glove that is too loose reduces grip and tactile sensitivity.

How to Measure Your Hand

  1. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the widest part of your palm (across the knuckles, excluding the thumb).
  2. Make a loose fist and note the circumference in inches.
  3. Your palm circumference in inches corresponds directly to your glove size number.
  4. If you are between sizes, round up to the next whole size for insulating gloves.
SizePalm CircumferenceMiddle Finger LengthDescription
Size 77" (178mm)4.4"Extra Small
Size 88" (203mm)4.7"Small
Size 99" (229mm)5.0"Medium
Size 1010" (254mm)5.3"Large
Size 1111" (279mm)5.6"Extra Large
Size 1212" (305mm)5.9"2X Large

Glove Kit Pairing Guide

Every rubber insulating glove should be paired with the correct leather protector. The leather protector must extend beyond the rubber glove cuff by the specified gap to prevent accidental contact with energized parts at the cuff edge.

Rubber Glove ClassCuff Gap RequirementLeather Protector TypeProtector Length
Class 00 / Class 01/2" (13mm)Low-voltage leather protectors11"
Class 11" (25mm)Medium-voltage leather protectors14"
Class 22" (51mm)High-voltage leather protectors16"
Class 32" (51mm)High-voltage leather protectors18"
Class 42" (51mm)Extra high-voltage leather protectors18"

Important Note

The leather protector must always be shorter than the rubber glove so the rubber cuff extends beyond the leather. This exposed rubber cuff provides the critical insulating barrier at the wrist. Never trim or modify leather protectors. Replace protectors that are worn, stiff, or no longer fit properly over the rubber glove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about insulating gloves, testing, and compliance.

Per OSHA 1910.137, rubber insulating gloves must be electrically tested before first issue and every 6 months thereafter. Gloves not used for more than 12 months since their last test must be retested before being placed back into service. Many employers retest on a quarterly rotation to ensure no gloves ever exceed their test date.

Still Have Questions?

Our team of electrical safety specialists is here to help you find the right gloves, understand compliance requirements, and keep your crew protected.