Arc Flash Gloves vs. Rubber Insulating Gloves: What’s the Real Difference?

The Hazards at Hand

Electrical work can expose workers to both electric shock and arc flash. These hazards need separate assessment, even when they occur during the same task.

Electric Shock

Shock occurs when electrical current passes through the body as part of an electrical circuit. The current does not have to pass through the person to ground. The consequences can include burns, muscle contractions, cardiac arrest or fatal electrocution. The severity depends on factors including the current, its path through the body and the duration of contact.

Arc Flash

An arc flash is a sudden release of thermal energy from an electrical arc. It can produce intense heat and light, and an associated arc blast can create pressure waves and propel molten material or debris.

Arc events can be triggered by factors including:

• Dust or corrosion buildup
• Dropped tools or metal objects
• Equipment failure
• Animal interference
• Improper maintenance

Arc-rated hand protection addresses thermal exposure. It should not be assumed to protect against every consequence of an arc blast.

Because these hazards behave differently, they require different types of protection.

The Rulebook: Key Safety Standards

Glove selection comes after the electrical risk assessment. Establishing an electrically safe work condition is the priority. Where energized work is justified, qualified workers need the appropriate procedures, training and PPE for the assessed hazards. Several standards help distinguish product performance from workplace selection and use.

ASTM D120 — Rubber Insulating Gloves

ASTM D120-22 covers the manufacturing and testing of rubber insulating gloves for protection against electrical shock.

There are six voltage classes, from Class 00 through Class 4. For example:

• Class 00 has a maximum use voltage of 500 volts AC.
• Class 0 has a maximum use voltage of 1,000 volts AC.
• Classes 1–4 have progressively higher maximum use voltages.

These are maximum use voltages, not the higher voltages applied during proof testing. Select the appropriate class for the assessed exposure and applicable requirements. AC and DC use limits differ.

ASTM F2675/F2675M — Arc Flash Protection

ASTM F2675/F2675M-23 provides a laboratory test method for determining arc ratings of hand-protection products intended for electric arc exposure. It does not determine protection against electrical contact or shock. Arc ratings are expressed in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²). They describe performance under specified laboratory conditions, not a guarantee that an injury cannot occur.

Where an Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) is reported, it represents the incident energy associated with a 50% probability that heat transferred through the tested material would be sufficient to predict the onset of a second-degree burn under the test conditions.

The required hand protection must come from the electrical risk assessment and applicable selection method.

Workplace Safety and In-Service Care

For Canadian workplaces, CSA Z462:24 provides requirements and guidance for workplace electrical safety, including safe work practices and PPE selection. NFPA 70E is another widely used workplace electrical-safety reference. Its latest published edition is 2027.

ASTM F496-24 addresses the in-service care, inspection, testing and use of insulating gloves and sleeves. Apply the requirements relevant to the jurisdiction, task and employer’s electrical-safety program. These references serve different purposes; a product test does not replace a workplace risk assessment.

Our PPE purchasing checklist can help organize a review of product markings, specifications and supplier documentation.

Choosing the Right Glove for the Job

Arc Flash Gloves

Arc flash gloves are designed to reduce thermal injury from an electric arc exposure.

Depending on the product, they may include:

• Flame-resistant materials
• Cut-resistant yarns
• Grip coatings
• Water-resistant features

Those additional features do not establish electrical insulation. An arc rating alone does not demonstrate shock protection. A glove used for shock protection needs separately documented insulating performance appropriate to the assessed exposure.

Rubber Insulating Gloves

When the assessment identifies a shock hazard requiring insulating hand protection, workers need appropriately voltage-rated insulating gloves and the required protector system. These gloves provide an insulating barrier designed to protect against electrical shock when correctly selected, maintained and used. Glove requirements depend on the exposure and applicable work practices, not only whether someone intends to touch an energized part.

A voltage class alone does not establish that the entire glove system is suitable for every hazard in the task. For a broader overview of selection considerations, see our guide to matching work gloves to workplace hazards.

The Dynamic Duo: Rubber Insulators + Leather Protectors

Rubber insulating gloves are generally worn with compatible protector gloves. Leather protectors are a common option.

This combination serves two important purposes.

Rubber Gloves

• Provide electrical insulation.
• Address the assessed shock exposure when the correct class is selected.
• Require inspection, care and electrical testing to remain suitable for service.

Protector Gloves

• Help protect the insulating gloves from cuts, punctures and abrasion.
• Reduce the likelihood of mechanical damage during work.
• Must be intended and appropriately sized for use over the insulating gloves.

Ordinary leather work gloves should not automatically be treated as suitable protectors. Follow the applicable requirements and manufacturer’s instructions for compatibility and fit. Properly selected rubber insulating gloves with protectors can also provide arc flash protection. The complete system still needs to meet the task’s assessed requirements. Do not assume arbitrary glove layers provide a known combined arc rating.

Inspection, Testing and Storage

Inspect insulating gloves and protectors before use. Follow the required air-check and electrical-testing procedures, maintain testing records, and remove damaged or suspect equipment from service. Store gloves according to the manufacturer’s instructions, protecting them from damaging conditions such as excessive heat, sunlight, ozone and incompatible substances. Inspection and testing requirements should follow the applicable workplace rules and standards, including ASTM F496 where relevant.

Why Confusing These Gloves Is Dangerous

One of the most serious mistakes is assuming an arc rating can substitute for a voltage rating.

It cannot establish that protection.

Arc performance and electrical insulation are different properties. Where both hazards are present, the selected glove system must address both.

Proper hazard assessment must determine whether the task involves:

• Arc flash
• Electrical shock
• Both hazards

Only then can the correct glove system be selected. Product documentation, glove condition, compatibility and safe work procedures all matter.

Final Thoughts

Arc flash gloves and rubber insulating gloves address different aspects of electrical protection.

Remember:

• Arc ratings describe thermal performance during electric arc exposure.
• Voltage-rated insulating gloves address electrical shock hazards.
• A compatible insulating glove and protector system may address both hazards when selected for the assessed task.
• PPE supports safe work practices; it does not make otherwise unjustified energized work acceptable.

Whenever electricity is involved, glove selection should match the specific hazards and applicable safety requirements. For help reviewing available hand-protection options and supporting product documentation, contact Stalwart Safety.

Because when it comes to electrical work, the right glove isn’t just a piece of PPE, it’s a critical line of defense between you and a life-changing injury.

Your hands do the work every day. Make sure they’re protected by the right system.