CSLB C-46 Solar ContractorSafetyHard
A solar technician is required to work on an energized 600V DC combiner box for diagnostic purposes. Which type of insulating gloves should the technician use to ensure adequate protection against electric shock?
- AClass 00
- BClass 1
- CClass 2
- DClass 0
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Class 1
Insulating gloves are rated by voltage class. Class 1 gloves are rated for a maximum use voltage of 7,500V AC and 11,250V DC. Since 600V DC falls within this rating, Class 1 gloves provide adequate protection. Class 00 (500V AC/750V DC) and Class 0 (1,000V AC/1,500V DC) are below or at the threshold for 600V DC when considering a safety margin, making Class 1 the safer and more appropriate choice for continuous use.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Class 00 gloves are rated for 750V DC maximum, which is very close to 600V DC, providing minimal safety margin for continuous use.
- C. Class 2 gloves are rated for 17,000V DC, which is overkill for 600V DC and may be less flexible, though still protective.
- D. Class 0 gloves are rated for 1,500V DC maximum, which would be acceptable, but Class 1 offers a higher level of protection for slightly higher voltages or greater safety margin.
Insulating Glove Voltage Classes
Insulating gloves are categorized into classes (00, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4) based on their maximum AC and DC use voltage, with higher classes offering protection against higher voltages.
- Class 00: 500V AC / 750V DC
- Class 0: 1,000V AC / 1,500V DC
- Class 1: 7,500V AC / 11,250V DC
- Class 2: 17,000V AC / 25,500V DC
- Always select gloves rated for the maximum system voltage plus a safety margin.
Memory trick: Voltage up, glove class must jump.