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Insulated Hand Tools

Introduction

Historically, electrocutions have been a leading cause of occupational fatalities; many times ranking among the top five. In addition to the thousands of fatalities annually, there is an average of 3,600 electrical-related disabling injuries. In an effort to reduce the number of fatalities and injuries, OSHA published the initial regulations for electrical safety in the workplace in 1990. Among the new regulations was the requiring of insulated tools when working near energized circuits. 29 CFR 1910.335(a)(2)(i) reads as follows “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 individually tested and certified by the manufacturer to be suitable for specific working conditions. Generally, the maximum rated voltage for insulated tools is 1000 volts AC and 1500 volts DC. When purchasing an insulated tool, look for 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, IEC, and DIN do not test the tools for compliance; they just set the performance requirements for the insulation. The manufacturers do their own testing. The Association of German Electro Technicians (VDE) is an independent agency that tests a sample of each tool to ensure compliance.

Use and Care of Insulated Tools

• Keep tools clean and dry
• Inspect insulation prior to each use
• If you doubt the integrity of the insulation, destroy the tool or have it re-tested
• Follow the manufacturer’s temperature recommendations for use
• Have a qualified person inspect and re-certify tools annually for safe use
• Use other personal protective equipment as necessary

Commonly Asked Questions

Sources for More Information

www.wihatools.com
http://www2.din.de/
www.kleintools.com
www.facom.com
www.astm.org
http://www.iec.ch/
www.osha.gov
29 CFR 1910.335
29 CFR 1910.137

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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.