The American Society for Testing and Materials (now ASTM International) establishes technical standards for terminology, testing, practice/usage, and classification of many different types of products. These standards then become the baseline for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. The use and testing of insulating rubber goods falls into the realm of ASTM and OSHA standards.
It is necessary for gloves to be tested by a qualified testing lab every 6 months while sleeves and blankets need to be tested every year, according to ASTM F496 and F479-- Standard Specification for In-Service Care of Insulating Gloves and Sleeves/Blankets. Gloves can be tested as often as every 30 days and sleeves may be tested as often as every 60 days. Many companies choose to test more often in order to improve workplace safety. Special Fleet is happy to provide these testing services.
