Guide to Insulated Hand Tools
Working around electrical circuits always poses a high risk of injury, especially when working with tools that may act as conductors. It is important to insulate all tools used in areas that are at risk of electrical contact. Check out PE Facts to learn how to insulate tools properly and stay safe on the job!
Electrocutions have always been a major cause of work related fatalities; usually ranking in the top five. There are approximately 3,600 electrical-related disabling injuries, not to mention the thousands of fatalities each year. In 1990, in an effort to reduce these numbers, OSHA released regulations for electrical safety in the workplace. One of these new regulations required the use of insulated tools when working near energized circuits. 29 CFR 1910.335(a)(2)(i) states, "When working near exposed energized conductors or circuit parts, each employee shall use insulated tools or handling equipment if the tools or handling equipment might make contact with such conductors or parts…."
General Requirements
Insulated tools are each tested individually and receive certification from the manufacturer stating that they are acceptable to use under certain working conditions. In general, the highest voltage that insulated tools can withstand is 1000 volts AC and 1500 volts DC. Insulated tools should be in compliance with one or more of the following standards: The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and The Deutsches Institute for Normung (DIN-German Standard). The ASTM, DIN, and IEC do not actually perform the test for compliance on the tools; they just establish the performance requirements for the insulation. Manufacturers must do their own testing. The Association of German Electro Technicians (VDE) is an independent agency that tests a sample of each tool to guarantee compliance.
Use and Care of Insulated Tools
- Always keep tools clean and dry.
- Inspect insulation before each use.
- If you doubt the integrity of the insulation, throw the tool away or have it re-tested.
- Follow the manufacturer's temperature recommendations for use.
- For safe use, have a qualified person inspect and re-certify tools annually.
- Use other personal protective equipment as necessary.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q. Are there requirements for the periodic re-testing of insulated hand tools?
A. There are not specific requirements for re-testing insulated hand tools, but in compliance with 29 CFR 1910.355(a)(1)(ii), "protective equipment shall be maintained in a safe, reliable condition and shall be periodically inspected or tested as required by 1910.137". Most manufacturers recommend inspecting the insulation before each use and having a qualified person perform an inspection and certification annually. To assist the inspection process, some manufacturers provide two-layer insulation that changes color when the insulation has been worn.
Q. Can insulated tools be used on energized circuits?
A. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for use. Although insulated tools may be tested and certified to 1000 volts AC, the testing agencies do not recommend using them directly on energized circuits. Most insulating tools are only intended for protection from accidental contact with energized circuits.
Sources for More Information
29 CFR 1910.335
29 CFR 1910.137
Please Note: The information contained in this publication is intended for general information purposes only. This publication is not a substitute for review of the applicable government regulations and standards, and should not be construed as legal advice or opinion. Readers with specific questions should refer to the cited regulation or consult with an attorney.
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