What is the difference between Class 0 and Class 1 insulating gloves?

Class 0 gloves (EN 60903) are rated for a maximum use voltage of 1,000 V AC and are tested at 5,000 V AC. Class 1 gloves are rated for up to 7,500 V AC and are tested at 10,000 V AC. For most series production vehicles (400–800 V DC traction batteries), Class 0 gloves are sufficient. Some vehicle-specific work instructions or development vehicle procedures may require Class 1.

How often must insulating gloves be inspected and tested?

EN 60903 and DGUV Vorschrift 3 require regular electrical testing of insulating gloves. The standard interval is every 6 months. In addition, a visual and inflation check must be carried out before each use. Gloves that are overdue for testing or show any damage must not be used.

Can protective overgloves replace insulating gloves for HV work?

No. Protective overgloves (leather or fabric) are worn over insulating gloves to protect the rubber from mechanical damage – they do not provide electrical insulation themselves. For HV vehicle work, both layers are required: the insulating rubber glove underneath and the protective overglove on top. Neither layer alone is sufficient.

Insulating Gloves Class 0 & 1 – EN 60903 for HV Vehicle Work

EN 60903 Classification – Voltage Ratings

Class	Max. Use Voltage (AC)	Max. Use Voltage (DC)	Test Voltage (AC)	Typical HV Application
Class 0	1,000 V	1,500 V	5,000 V	Most series production vehicles (400–800 V DC)
Class 1	7,500 V	11,250 V	10,000 V	Higher-voltage systems, development vehicles, some OEM requirements
Class 2	17,000 V	25,500 V	20,000 V	Utility/industrial HV – rarely required for vehicle work
Class 3	26,500 V	39,750 V	30,000 V	High-voltage transmission – not applicable for vehicle work

Always verify the required glove class in the vehicle manufacturer's work instruction and your organisation's HV risk assessment. Class 0 is the minimum for most workshop HV work.

Correct Use and Layering

Inner cotton liner (optional) – improves comfort and absorbs perspiration; does not provide electrical protection
Insulating rubber glove (Class 0 or Class 1 to EN 60903) – provides electrical protection
Protective overglove (leather or fabric) – worn over the rubber glove to protect against cuts, abrasion and puncture. Mandatory when working with tools or rough surfaces

The insulating glove alone is sufficient for the electrical hazard, but the protective overglove is required to prevent mechanical damage to the rubber that would compromise electrical protection.

Pre-Use Inspection (Before Every Use)

Inflation test – roll the glove towards the fingers to trap air; check for leaks by sound or feel
Visual inspection – check for cuts, punctures, ozone cracking, discolouration or embedded particles
Check the test date label – gloves overdue for electrical testing must not be used
Gloves with any defect must be immediately taken out of service and destroyed or sent for re-testing

Testing and Recertification Intervals

EN 60903 and DGUV Vorschrift 3 require periodic electrical testing – typically every 6 months
Gloves must be re-tested after any incident where their protection may have been compromised
The test date must be clearly marked on the glove
Maintain a register of all insulating gloves with serial numbers, sizes and test dates

Do insulating gloves expire even if unused?

Yes. Rubber degrades over time through oxidation, ozone attack and UV exposure even in storage. EN 60903 defines a maximum storage period and shelf life for new gloves. Most manufacturers specify a maximum age of 10 years from the date of manufacture regardless of use. Always check the manufacturing date stamped on the cuff and do not use gloves beyond the manufacturer's specified shelf life.

Can ordinary rubber gloves or latex gloves be used instead?

Absolutely not. Standard household rubber gloves, latex medical gloves and similar products provide no meaningful electrical protection and must never be used for HV vehicle work. Only gloves bearing the EN 60903 certification mark and the appropriate class designation may be used. The consequences of using unsuitable gloves on an energised HV system can be fatal.

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Correct selection, inspection and use of insulating gloves is practised in every Hochvolt-Experten training course. Nationwide in-house.

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Insulating Gloves Class 0 & 1

EN 60903 Classification – Voltage Ratings

Correct Use and Layering

Pre-Use Inspection (Before Every Use)

Testing and Recertification Intervals

Related Terms

Hands-On PPE Training Included in All HV Courses