Rubber gloves MUST be electrically tested at MAXIMUM intervals of

• A. 3 months
• B. 6 months
• C. 12 months
• D. 24 months

Answer: (B)

Regular testing of rubber insulating gloves every six months is required because the insulation can degrade between uses. Rubber can develop microcracks, ozone damage, or wear from bending, heat, or contact with oils and solvents. These issues may not be visible during a quick daily check but can compromise protection under actual working voltages. A dielectric (high-voltage) test is done in a controlled lab to confirm the glove still withstands the required voltage for the specified duration, catching defects that a simple inspection might miss. In practice, you visually inspect the gloves before each use for cuts, cracks, stiffness, or discoloration, and remove them from service if any defect is found. If they pass the visual check and the dielectric test, they’re approved for continued use until the next six-month interval.