Electricity is invisible — and deadly. A single mistake with high-voltage equipment can cause burns, shock, arc flash explosions, or even fatal electrocution. That’s why the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) require workers exposed to electrical hazards to wear specialized PPE designed for arc and shock protection.
This 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about electrical PPE, including OSHA and NFPA 70E requirements, voltage-rated gloves, dielectric footwear, arc-rated clothing, and insulating mats. You’ll also find a complete inspection and replacement checklist to help your team stay safe — and compliant.
Shop certified PPE here:
👉 Electrical Safety Equipment
1. Understanding Electrical Hazards
Electricians, maintenance technicians, and utility workers face two main electrical risks:
- Electric Shock – Direct contact with live electrical parts that can stop the heart or cause internal burns.
- Arc Flash – A high-temperature explosion caused by an electrical fault that vaporizes metal and releases intense heat and pressure.
OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.137 and NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace) define PPE requirements for both shock and arc flash hazards.
2. OSHA and NFPA Requirements for Electrical PPE
OSHA mandates that employers must:
- Assess the workplace for electrical hazards.
- Provide appropriate PPE for the voltage or energy level.
- Maintain, inspect, and replace PPE as required.
- Train workers on selection, inspection, and proper use.
NFPA 70E goes deeper — specifying arc flash categories, boundaries, and PPE ratings based on cal/cm² (calories per square centimeter) of potential energy exposure.
Key References:
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.137 – Electrical Protective Equipment.
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 – Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.
- NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) – Arc Flash PPE Categories.
For complete OSHA details:
OSHA 1910.137 – Electrical Protective Equipment
3. PPE Categories for Electrical Work
Electrical PPE can be grouped into three main protection areas:
- Insulating PPE (for shock protection) – Gloves, sleeves, mats, and boots.
- Arc-rated PPE (for thermal protection) – Flame-resistant (FR) clothing, hoods, and face shields.
- Protective accessories – Tools, signage, and maintenance gear that prevent contact with energized parts.
Every layer works together to reduce the risk of injury or fatality.
4. Electrical Safety PPE Checklist
A. Voltage-Rated Gloves
Applicable Standard: OSHA 1910.137, ASTM D120
Purpose: Protects hands from electrical shock and burns when working on live circuits.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check for holes, cracks, cuts, ozone damage, and sticky residue.
- Air-test gloves before each use (inflate and listen for leaks).
- Ensure correct class rating for system voltage.
Voltage Ratings by Class:
| Class | Maximum Use Voltage (AC) | Color Code |
|---|---|---|
| 00 | 500V | Beige |
| 0 | 1,000V | Red |
| 1 | 7,500V | White |
| 2 | 17,000V | Yellow |
| 3 | 26,500V | Green |
| 4 | 36,000V | Orange |
Replacement Frequency:
- Visually inspect before every use.
- Air test monthly or after any suspected damage.
- Replace immediately if contaminated, punctured, or past test date.
Maintenance Tips:
- Store gloves in cool, dry cabinets.
- Keep away from sunlight, ozone, and oils.
- Always pair with leather protectors to prevent cuts and abrasion.
Browse voltage-rated gloves:
👉 Electrical & Insulated Gloves
B. Electrical Insulating Sleeves
Applicable Standard: ASTM D1051
Purpose: Extends arm protection when reaching into energized panels or cabinets.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check for cracks, swelling, or stickiness.
- Verify no embedded debris or tape residue.
Replacement Frequency:
- Every 6 months or sooner if testing fails or visual defects appear.
C. Arc-Rated (AR) Clothing
Applicable Standard: NFPA 70E, ASTM F1506
Purpose: Protects against heat, flames, and molten metal during arc flash incidents.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check for fading, holes, tears, or oil contamination.
- Verify ARC rating (cal/cm²) meets or exceeds hazard level.
- Ensure labels remain legible.
PPE Category Examples:
| PPE Category | Arc Rating (cal/cm²) | Required Clothing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 cal/cm² | FR shirt + FR pants |
| 2 | 8 cal/cm² | FR shirt + FR pants + face shield |
| 3 | 25 cal/cm² | FR coverall + hood + balaclava |
| 4 | 40 cal/cm² | Multi-layer FR suit + arc flash hood |
Replacement Frequency:
- After any exposure to arc flash, flames, or contamination.
- Every 12–24 months, depending on wear and washing cycles.
D. Face Shields, Hoods, and Balaclavas
Applicable Standard: ASTM F2178, NFPA 70E
Purpose: Protects the face and eyes from arc flash energy, flying debris, and molten metal.
Inspection Checklist:
- Inspect for scratches, cracks, or melted areas.
- Check face shield tint and arc rating label.
- Confirm visor attachment and chin guard stability.
Replacement Frequency:
- Every 2–3 years, or sooner if visibility or integrity is compromised.
E. Dielectric Footwear
Applicable Standard: ASTM F1117, OSHA 1910.136
Purpose: Prevents electrical conduction through the feet to ground.
Inspection Checklist:
- Check soles for cuts, punctures, or embedded metal.
- Test dielectric resistance periodically (typically every 6 months).
- Clean with mild soap and water — no solvents.
Replacement Frequency:
- Every 12–18 months, or after exposure to petroleum, high heat, or chemicals.
F. Insulating Mats and Blankets
Applicable Standard: ASTM D178
Purpose: Prevents electrical current from passing through workers standing near live panels.
Inspection Checklist:
- Inspect for gouges, cracks, burns, or embedded debris.
- Ensure mats are rated for voltage exposure.
- Verify size and placement cover full working area.
Replacement Frequency:
- Every 3–5 years, or immediately if worn, cut, or contaminated.
G. Voltage Detectors and Tools
Applicable Standard: OSHA 1910.269(l)
Purpose: Confirms circuits are de-energized before work begins.
Inspection Checklist:
- Test on a known live circuit before and after each use.
- Replace batteries regularly.
Replacement Frequency:
- As recommended by manufacturer or when calibration fails.
5. How to Create an Electrical PPE Maintenance Program
A strong PPE program is proactive, not reactive. Use the checklist below to ensure full compliance and safety:
Step 1: Conduct a Hazard Assessment
Identify all energized equipment and determine voltage, arc energy, and working distances.
Step 2: Establish PPE Categories
Use NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(a) to assign PPE categories based on task and energy levels.
Step 3: Schedule Regular Inspections
- Daily: Worker checks condition before use.
- Monthly: Supervisor reviews logbooks.
- Annually: Third-party testing and certification (especially for gloves and mats).
Step 4: Train Employees
Workers must understand:
- Voltage class ratings
- Arc flash boundaries
- How to properly don and doff PPE
Step 5: Replace and Record
Maintain detailed PPE logs with:
- Issue date
- Test date
- Replacement schedule
Explore full PPE options:
👉 Shop All PPE Equipment
6. Common Mistakes in Electrical PPE Use
- Using non-rated gloves. Standard rubber gloves offer zero shock protection without voltage certification.
- Skipping daily air tests. Tiny pinholes can let current pass directly through to the skin.
- Ignoring arc flash category labels. Wearing the wrong FR level exposes workers to severe burns.
- Using dirty or oily PPE. Contaminants can alter the insulation and reduce dielectric resistance.
- Failing to replace old gloves. Most rubber gloves have a 6-month test interval — ignoring this can void compliance.
7. Recommended Electrical PPE Replacement Timeline
| PPE Type | Inspection Frequency | Replacement Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Gloves | Daily visual / Monthly air test | Every 6 months or after failure |
| Leather Protectors | Daily | Replace with glove set |
| Arc-Rated Clothing | Before each use | 12–24 months |
| Face Shield / Hood | Before each use | 2–3 years |
| Dielectric Footwear | Monthly | 12–18 months |
| Insulating Mats | Monthly | 3–5 years |
| Voltage Testers | Before & After use | Per manufacturer |
| Sleeves | Before use | 6 months |
8. The Bottom Line
Electrical hazards don’t give second chances. Compliance with OSHA 1910.137 and NFPA 70E isn’t just a regulation — it’s a life-saving standard.
Before you start any electrical task, remember:
- Test before you touch.
- Wear the right gear for the voltage level.
- Replace damaged PPE immediately.
Protect your crew, your job site, and your company from catastrophic incidents.
Stay fully equipped:
👉 Shop Electrical Safety Gear
People Also Ask (FAQ)
1. What PPE is required for electrical work?
Insulated gloves, dielectric footwear, arc-rated FR clothing, face shields, and insulating mats are commonly required for electrical work under OSHA 1910.137 and NFPA 70E.
2. How often should voltage gloves be tested?
Every 6 months per OSHA 1910.137(b)(2)(viii). Gloves must also be visually inspected before each use and air-tested for leaks.
3. What does “arc-rated” mean?
Arc-rated (AR) clothing is flame-resistant apparel tested to withstand a specific amount of arc flash energy, measured in cal/cm².
4. Can leather gloves alone protect from electricity?
No. Leather gloves are not insulating. They must be worn over rubber voltage-rated gloves for mechanical protection.
5. Do FR clothes protect against electric shock?
No. FR clothing only protects against heat and flames from an arc flash — not direct electrical contact.
Author Bio
Mick Chan is a Safety Supplies industry professional with over 15 years of hands-on experience. He specializes in OSHA compliance, PPE regulations, and bulk safety product procurement for high-risk industries. Mick earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Cal State LA in 2013 and has been advising companies across California ever since. Born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley, he understands the safety needs of businesses in diverse urban and industrial environments. His work focuses on bridging safety compliance with practical product solutions for the modern workplace.