Insulated hand tools include all the hand tools which offer insulation protection to electricians, telecom field engineers, tradesmen and utility workers when they need to perform a task on or near live equipment. Indeed, to avoid the risks associated with electric current, it is required to use insulated tools when opening and closing panels, connecting and disconnecting contacts, cutting wire or installing circuit breakers for example. VDE insulated tools provide an extra measure of protection against electrical hazards. High quality insulated tools are designed to protect workers from electric shock and to reduce the possibility of being hurt by electric arc flash caused by short circuits. Most of hand tools can be found in insulated version: insulated screwdrivers, insulated spanners, insulated pliers, insulated knives and many more.

Telenco store offers a full range of ergonomic insulated tools that better fit the hands of technicians in order to reduce strain and fatigue, and prevent repetitive motion injuries. Our insulated pliers and wrenches are specially made to give you more gripping strength than other regular hand tools.

What are the required standards for insulated tools?

To be certified as insulated tools, hand tools must comply with the international IEC EN 60900 standards. It is applicable to insulated, insulating and hybrid hand tools used for working live or close to live equipment at nominal voltages up to 1000V AC or 1500V DC. To meet with these standards, the hands tools undergo to electrical testing at 10kV as well as impact tests, penetration test (to check the strength of the insulating material in crushing conditions), adherence test (to check if there is any risk of separation), flame non-propagation test, and other mechanical tests. Indeed, all parts of the hand tool must be flame resistant and function from -20° C (-4°F) to 70°C (158°F).

How do you tell if a tool is insulated?

You can check if a hand tool is insulated by looking for the official International 1000-volt rating symbol, represented by two triangles, that must be printed on every insulated hand tools. They feature two layers of insulation in contrasting colours (red and yellow, or orange and yellow). Insulated hand tools usually cost more but are definitely worth the protection.

Insulated hand tools are designed to preserve their insulating characteristics despite possible difficult conditions of use inherent with on-site work. However, they should be properly stored and kept clean so as not to alter their expected lifespan. You can complete your safety equipment with insulated safety shoes, insulated safety gloves and protective visors.