What should be done if rubber insulating gloves are found to have defects during field testing?

When rubber insulating gloves are found to have defects during field testing, the appropriate action is to discard them. This is crucial because defective gloves can compromise the safety of the user by failing to provide the necessary insulation against electrical hazards. The integrity of insulation is vital when working with or near live electrical circuits, and any signs of wear, tears, or defects can lead to dangerous situations, including electric shock.

Using gloves with defects, even with caution, could result in a catastrophic failure at a critical moment. Repairing gloves can also be misleading, as patched areas do not guarantee the same level of safety as an undamaged pair. Cleaning is important for maintaining equipment; however, it does not address structural integrity or any defects that compromise the protective qualities of the gloves. Therefore, disposing of defective gloves ensures that all personnel are protected and reinforces the importance of safety protocols when handling electrical equipment.