Becoming Who You Want To Be

The subject of powered circuits safety and procedure would not be considered complete without a discussion regarding insulated tools. Risk team members know very well that they cannot employees to revamp electrical devices or live circuits using typical tools. However, this safety requirement also covers even employees who are likely to work in the vicinity of uncovered or live circuits while executing their everyday responsibilities.

Insulated tools provide an additional margin of safety in these circumstances, one that has been required by OSHA and risk managers for years.

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.

Specialty tools which are used to work with electrical circuits such as the crimpers, cutters and skinners manufactured by Klein are frequently found as insulated designs. These particular Klein tools are able to guarding against up to 10000 volts, and are ASTM and IEC rated. Still, there are numerous other types of tools that are frequently used in the presence of live circuits that are not as effortless to find insulated versions. These comprise sockets, wrenches and screwdrivers, as well as ratchets. Manufacturers such as Klein and OEL make quality insulated tools that meet each of these requirements. Again, it is imperative to make sure that the tool that is being investigated for purchase is truly a protective instrument and not just offering a rubber handle for comfort or grip-enhancing use.

Like any implement used by workers while performing their jobs, insulated tools must be properly cared for in order to make sure that they maintain adequate protection against shock hazards. Dependability and safety can be double-checked via an inspection program, which is in fact mandatory by OSHA to be implemented at any facility performing the sort of tasks that mandates their service. Nearly all inspections are visual in description, and entail examining tools for cracks, stress or other signs that their integrity may be compromised. Tools ought to also be kept clean, so as to avoid potential slips that may cause them to be dropped and hence expose a employee’s hand to the nearby 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.