What are leather gauntlets used for in electrical work?

• A. To decorate PPE.
• B. To shield eyes.
• C. To protect electrical insulating rubber gloves from damage during maintenance.
• D. To replace gloves.

Answer: (C)

Leather gauntlets provide mechanical protection for insulating rubber gloves. In electrical work, the rubber gloves do the insulating job, so a tough leather outer layer is worn over them to guard against abrasion, cuts, and punctures that can occur when handling tools or equipment. This helps keep the rubber gloves in good condition and maintains their ability to insulate. They are not for decoration, they don’t shield eyes, and they don’t replace the rubber gloves—the gloves themselves still provide the electrical protection, while the leather gauntlets shield them from physical damage. Regularly inspect both gloves and gauntlets and replace any damaged gear.