Tools For NFPA Workforce Safety

The question of electrical work work procedures wouldn’t be considered complete without a conversation covering insulated tools. Risk team members know that they cannot employees to revamp electrical devices or hot circuits using standard tools. However, this safety condition also covers even individuals who are expected to work near uncovered or live circuits while conducting their regular jobs. Insulated tools provide an mandatory margin of safety in these circumstances, one that has been required by OSHA and EHS managers for decades.

The issue of what can be used as an insulated tool can be somewhat bewildering. A simple plastic or rubber grip is not any warranty of a tool’s capacity to resist transmitting a specific level of electric current to the handler. In fact, OSHA expressly states an insulated tool as one which protects the handler from the conducting surfaces on the tool by a pocket of air or the use of dielectric safeguard. All insulated tools will be identified as such by their maker – if the claim hasn’t been made, then the tool cannot be understood to present any protection.

Hand tools that are used to interact with electrical circuits such as the crimpers, cutters and skinners made by Klein are commonly found as insulated designs. These unique Klein tools are designed for warding off up to 10000 volts, and are ASTM and IEC rated. Conversely, there are various other types of tools that are frequently used in the presence of live circuits that are not as straightforward to locate insulated versions. These comprise sockets, wrenches and screwdrivers, as well as ratchets. Companies such as Klein and OEL make superior insulated tools that meet each of these descriptions. Again, it is vital to ensure that the instrument that is being reviewed for purchase is truly a protective instrument and not simply offering a foam handle for comfort or grip-enhancing use.

Like any tool used by people while performing their jobs, insulated tools must be properly cared for in order to ensure that they maintain adequate security against shock hazards. Dependability and safety can be validated via an inspection program, which is in fact mandated by OSHA to be implemented at any business performing the sort of work that mandates their service. Most inspections are visual in description, and require examining tools for cracks, splits or other indications that their protection may be compromised. Tools must also be kept dirt free, so as to avoid likely slips that may cause them to be dropped and hence expose a user’s hand to the close by electrical circuit.

Risk managers should keep in mind that the use of insulated tools does not exclude the required use of other personal protective equipment (PPE) required for use during electrical work. This can include gloves, hoods, pants and full suits, depending upon the situation in question. Similarly, the use of personal protective equipment PPE should not be interpreted as giving a level of protection that renders the use of standard tools near a charged electrical circuit good enough.

Mike Richards is a risk management expert specializing in protective safety equipment and gas cylinder storage.