AS 60903:2022: What the New Standard Means for Electrical Gloves
If you're in the electrical or utilities industry, you know your gloves are more than just PPE — they’re your first line of defense. The standards that govern those gloves? They matter. That’s why the recent release of AS 60903:2022 is worth paying attention to.
This isn’t just a paperwork update. It affects what gloves you use, how you test them, and what’s expected on worksites. But don’t worry — we’ve broken it down for you.
🕒 A Quick Timeline: How Glove Standards Have Evolved
Understanding where we’ve come from helps make sense of where we are now. Here's a simple breakdown:
- AS 2225:1994 (Obsolete)
The original Australian standard. Trusted for decades. Simple and widely used. - AS/NZS 60903:2020
Brought Australia in line with international IEC standards. Good progress — but it left out a few glove options many teams relied on. - AS 60903:2022
The latest version, created with industry feedback. It fills in the gaps, reintroduces popular glove classes, and updates how gloves are tested and managed.
What’s Actually Changed? Here’s the Real Impact
🧤 1. Some Familiar Glove Classes Are Back
Many crews were used to working with glove types that disappeared under the 2020 version. Good news — they’re back.
- Class 00-a → Rated up to 650V
- Class 1-a → Rated up to 10,000V
These classes offer more flexibility and help you match gloves to specific tasks and voltage levels. If your team was missing these options, they’re now officially supported again.
⚡ 2. Testing Guidelines for Class 00, 00-a, and Class 0 Gloves
According to AS 60903, national requirements relating to periodic inspection and testing of Class 00, Class 00-a, and Class 0 gloves may be considered adequate in place of mandatory routine dielectric testing.
EN 60903 further states that for Class 00 and Class 0 gloves, an air leak test combined with visual inspection may be considered sufficient. However, a routine dielectric test may still be performed at the owner’s request.
⚠️ Note: This update only applies to lower voltage classes.
Gloves rated Class 1 and above still require periodic electrical testing.
🔍 So, What Does All This Mean for You?
- You’ve now got more glove options to suit different voltages and tasks
- Some testing routines may be simpler, saving time and cost
- You’ll need to double-check your state regulations and update your internal OH&S policy
- Most importantly — you can stay compliant without compromising safety
✅ How DECO Supports the Transition
We’re not just here to sell gloves — we’re here to make sure you’re set up for success. At DECO, we offer:
- A complete glove range — from Class 00-a to Class 2, including the newly reintroduced classes
- Technical support to help you choose the right class and understand testing requirements
- Support from a trusted brand with decades of experience
💬 Need a Hand Choosing the Right Gloves?
Glove standards can be confusing. But they don’t have to be. If you’re unsure which class suits your team or how the new standard affects you, just reach out.
Currently, we don’t yet have the latest AS 60903:2022 certification in place — but we’re actively working towards it. Our team is fully engaged in aligning our products and processes with the new requirements to ensure a smooth transition as soon as possible.
We’re here to help you stay protected, compliant, and ready to work.