What kind of gloves are recommended for electricians?

Question

I'd like to do some wiring by myself, but I don't feel comfortable with the gloves I am wearing, particularly when using isolating tape.

I know the best I can do is turn off the main switch, but what to do in case I have to deal with a wire that comes from the service company?

Answer 1

I'm a licensed electrician, and I'll agree......you should always turn off the power before working on any circuit. I never work on ANYTHING hot, unless there's no other option. Take the time to turn the breaker or safety swith off! Also, you should never touch any of the utility company's wire, under any circumstances. The only gloves that are acceptable when working on live service drops or service laterals are insulated rubber gloves, with leather or nylon outer jackets, or other rigid coating materials. They are pretty expensive and must be inspected regularly for holes, tears or other damage. Please do not work on any live utility feeds, for you own safety!!!

Answer 2

Have a look on the web for the accident report on the incident at the Stanford Linear Accelerator. The bottom line was that somebody got seriously injured, gloves and protective gear notwithstanding, because Stanford wouldn't inconvenience their research scientists by shutting down the circuit and making it "cold". So, make sure the circuit is "cold", breakers off for sure. Then, if you can, use some sort of cheap neon light circuit tester to insure the circuit is really cold and that some other amateur electrician hasn't accidentally created a sneak path back through the same wiring.

Answer 3

Electricians don't usually wear gloves. turn off the juice at the
main box. I f you don't know how, you shouldn't be fooling with this job to begin with. The only wires you should be working
with are in the residence, not from the pole to the main box.
Personally, If I were you, I would get help from some one with
experience. And never, ever crawl under a building with an extension cord.........