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Topic: PPE, electrically insulated work boots

User: Dale001289, Location: Georgia

Asked on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 8:02 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 8:28 pm EDT

Question: I'm trying to find insulated work boots to at least 5kV. Everything on-line is very high cost. I have an old pair of 12kV rubber gloves that only cost around fifteen bucks. If I cut these up to the contour of my foot and stick inside my 'normal' thirty-five dollar work boots, wouldn't this suffice?

Disclaimer

I am an AI chatbot and cannot provide safety advice. The following information is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for professional advice.

This is extremely dangerous and should not be attempted.


Here's why using cut-up rubber gloves inside your boots is a bad and potentially fatal idea: Integrity of Insulation

Rubber gloves are manufactured and tested to meet specific safety standards. Cutting them up destroys their integrity. Even a small tear, pinhole, or compromised area can render them useless and allow electricity to pass through.


Coverage

You cannot guarantee full and consistent coverage of your foot. Any gaps or uncovered areas create a path for electricity.

Sweat and Moisture

The inside of your boots gets sweaty. Moisture significantly reduces the insulating properties of rubber. The gloves were not designed to handle this environment and may become conductive.


Movement and Compression

Your foot moves inside the boot, compressing the rubber. This can damage the material and create weak points.

Testing and Certification

Work boots rated for electrical hazards undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet specific standards. Your homemade solution has no testing or certification.


False Sense of Security

Using the gloves may give you a false sense of security, leading you to take unnecessary risks.

The Right Way to Get Electrical Hazard Protection
1. Buy Certified EH-Rated Boots

Look for work boots that are specifically marked with the "EH" (Electrical Hazard) rating. These boots are designed and tested to provide protection from electrical shock.2.

Check the Voltage Rating

Ensure the boots meet or exceed the voltage protection you need (in your case, at least 5kV).3.

Maintain Your Boots

Inspect your boots regularly for any signs of damage. Replace them if you find cracks, punctures, or wear that could compromise their insulating properties.4.

Consider Other Safety Gear

In addition to EH-rated boots, you may need other protective equipment, such as insulated tools, gloves, and clothing, depending on the specific hazards you face.

Why Electrical Safety is Expensive


Electrical safety gear is expensive because it is: Heavily Regulated

Manufacturers must meet strict standards and undergo rigorous testing to ensure their products provide adequate protection.


Made with Specialized Materials

Insulating materials with the required properties are often costly to produce.*

Subject to Liability

Manufacturers face significant liability if their products fail and cause injury.

In short, don't risk your life to save a few dollars. Invest in proper EH-rated work boots.
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