This specification covers the acceptance testing of insulating rubber blankets that are used for the personal protection of workers from accidental contact with live electrical conductors, apparatus, or circuits. Two types of blankets, differing in chemical and physical characteristics, are provided and are designated as: Type I, made from properly vulcanized high-grade cis-1,4-polyisoprene rubber compound of natural or synthetic origin that is non-resistant to ozone; and Type II, made of any elastomer or combination of elastomeric compounds that is resistant to ozone. Five classes of blankets, designated as Classes 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4, are assigned according to electrical protection characteristics. Styles of blankets are designated in accordance to construction characteristics, namely: Style A, blankets free of any reinforcements; and Style B, blankets incorporated with reinforcement(s). When evaluated in accordance with the test procedures detailed herein, the blankets shall adhere to the following property requirements: electrical properties such as phase-phase maximum use voltage, AC and DC proof-test voltages, AC and DC dielectric breakdown test voltages, and AC and DC clearances; and physical and chemical properties such as ozone resistance, moisture absorption, tensile strength, tension set, elongation, drape stiffness, flex stiffness, tear resistance, resistance to accelerated heat aging, and puncture resistance.

1.1 This specification covers acceptance testing of rubber insulating blankets for protection of workers from accidental contact with live electrical conductors, apparatus, or circuits.

1.2 Two types of blankets are provided and are designated as Type I, not resistant to ozone, and Type II, resistant to ozone.

1.3 Five classes of blankets, differing in electrical characteristics, are provided and are designated as Class 0, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, and Class 4.

1.4 Two styles of blankets, differing in construction characteristics, are provided and are designated as Style A and Style B.

1.5 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Sections 16 – 19, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.