What does the 95% test voltage rule indicate for rubber insulating gloves?

The 95% test voltage rule indicates that when determining the maximum use voltage for rubber insulating gloves, the calculated maximum is defined as 95% of the test voltage, adjusted by subtracting 2000 volts. This is crucial for ensuring safety, as it establishes a limit that considers the inherent safety margins necessary when using gloves to protect against electrical hazards.

If the gloves are tested at a certain voltage, the maximum voltage they can safely protect against must be lower, thereby allowing for some degree of wear and potential failure without compromising the user's protection. This rule ensures that the gloves are not just meeting the testing standards but also maintaining a level of effectiveness when in use.

Understanding this concept reinforces the importance of proper testing and usage protocols, highlighting that maximizing safety often involves working with conservative estimates based on rigorous testing criteria. Thus, the maximum use voltage reflects a necessary safety precaution rather than a direct correlation with the test voltage.