European Standard · Hand Protection
EN 60903 – Gloves for Electrical Work: Insulating Protection
EN 60903 is the European standard specifying requirements for insulating gloves made of rubber or similar material, used to protect workers from electric shock when working on or near live electrical equipment.
1. Scope
EN 60903 applies to insulating gloves classified by voltage protection class (00 through 4), used by electricians and utility workers performing live or near-live electrical work. It does not cover mechanical protection, which may require an additional leather over-glove.
2. Exclusions & Related Standards
- Often worn with a leather protective over-glove to guard against mechanical damage to the insulating rubber glove beneath.
- Complements arc flash protective clothing under EN 61482 for workers facing both shock and arc flash hazards.
- Distinct from general mechanical risk gloves under EN 388, which do not provide electrical insulation.
3. Key Requirements & Marking
Gloves are classified into classes 00, 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, each corresponding to a maximum working voltage, with Class 00 rated for the lowest voltage and Class 4 for the highest. Gloves are marked with the class, manufacturing date, and size.
4. Testing Overview
Testing includes a dielectric withstand test at a specified proof voltage well above the rated working voltage, mechanical property tests such as tensile strength and elongation, and ageing resistance tests to confirm insulating performance is maintained over the glove’s service life.
5. Selection Guide
Select the glove class based on the maximum voltage present in the task, always applying an appropriate safety margin per local electrical safety regulations, and pair with a leather protector glove to prevent physical damage to the insulating layer during use.
6. Inspection, Care and Maintenance
- Visually inspect and inflate-test gloves before every use to check for punctures or weak spots
- Have gloves electrically retested at the interval specified by workplace electrical safety procedures, typically every six months
- Store folded or rolled in a protective bag away from sunlight, ozone, oils and sharp objects
- Remove from service immediately if any puncture, crack or contamination with oil is found
7. Frequently Asked Questions
What do the glove classes 00 to 4 mean?
Each class corresponds to a maximum rated working voltage, with Class 00 suitable for the lowest voltages and Class 4 for the highest voltage electrical work.
Do insulating gloves need a leather over-glove?
Yes, a leather protector glove is generally required over the insulating rubber glove to prevent cuts, abrasion or punctures that could compromise electrical insulation.
How often should insulating gloves be retested?
Most electrical safety programs require periodic electrical retesting, commonly every six months, in addition to inspection and air testing before each use.
Can insulating gloves be used for mechanical protection alone?
No, they are designed specifically for electrical insulation; general mechanical hazards should be addressed with appropriately rated gloves under EN 388.
What happens if an insulating glove has a small hole?
Any puncture, no matter how small, can compromise the electrical insulation and creates a serious shock risk, so the glove must be removed from service immediately.