Rubber Line Hose, Hoods, Covers, Sleeves, and Blankets

DOE-HDBK-1092-2004

7.4.10 RUBBER LINE HOSE, HOODS, COVERS, SLEEVES, AND BLANKETS

Linemen's rubber insulating sleeves are worn to provide protection from electric shock and burn

to the arm and shoulder areas. They are available in several different thicknesses, lengths, and

designs, depending on the maximum voltage they are designed to protect against.

Insulating line hose (flexible hose) is used as an insulating cover for electric conductors to

protect against accidental contacts. A lengthwise slit with overlapping sides permits the hose to

be placed on conductors easily. It is available in various diameters, lengths, and compositions.

Insulating covers are used in conjunction with line hose to cover an insulator and the conductor

attached to it for protection against accidental contact.

Rubber insulating blankets are molded sheets of insulating rubber or synthetic elastomer,

usually square or rectangular in shape, designed to cover energized electrical equipment to

prevent direct accidental contact by electrical workers.

7.4.11 LIVE LINE TOOLS

A careful periodic inspection shall be made of equipment used for handling or testing energized

lines or equipment. Such tools shall be examined before each use to make certain they are in

good condition.

Particular attention shall be given to preserving the surfaces of wooden and fiberglass tools

used around electrical equipment, including ladders, pike poles, switch sticks, live-line tools, and

insulating platforms. Only colorless varnish or other appropriate transparent insulating

preservative shall be used.

Insulated tools shall be stored in a dry location. Suitable containers or racks shall be provided to

protect the tools from mechanical damage and warping.

7.4.12 STOREROOM STORAGE

Since heat, light, oil, and distortion are natural enemies of rubber, rubber protective equipment

should be guarded from these as much as possible. Rubber equipment shall not be stored near

boiler rooms, steam pipes, or radiators and should be protected from exposure to direct

sunlight.

Gloves should be stored in their natural shape in the leather protector. Keep sleeves flat with

the inserts left in. Blankets should be stored flat, hung on pegs by the eyelet or rolled up. Line

hose should be stored in its natural shape.

7.4.13 TRUCK STORAGE

The storing of rubber protective equipment on the truck should be planned. If possible, separate

compartments should be provided for each class of equipment, and each compartment should

be of sufficient size to allow the articles to lie in a natural position. Rubber gloves should be

stored in glovebags and hung up. If stored in tool bags or inside boxes, nothing should be piled

on top to cause distortion. Gloves should not be stored near vehicle heaters.

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