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1000V Insulated Electrical Tools

Many electrical projects require insulated tools. These tools reduce the chance of injury if the tool makes contact with a power source. Don't confuse them with tools that have slip-on plastic handles. Insulated hand tools must be marked with the international 1,000-volt rating symbol, manufacturer's name, part number and year manufactured. Insulated tools are tested at 10,000 volts to receive a 1,000-volt rating. According to the International Electrotechnical Commission, insulated tools, particularly for 1000-volt work, have strict standards that manufacturers must meet.

  1. Tool Kits

    • Insulated tool kits offer the best value for the knowledgeable do-it-yourself home repair person, builder or licensed electrician. Kits contain a variety of insulated tools. Two-color insulation makes it easy to inspect for wear. If the under layer is showing beneath the top layer, it means that the tool is no longer insulated properly and should be replaced. Many manufacturers can make a custom-designed kit for specialized applications.

    Wrenches

    • Insulated wrenches prevent shorting or shock. Most are adjustable and available in eight, 10, 12 and 15-inch varieties. They feature a PVC heat shrink insulation with non-conductive plastic handles. Insulated extenders and adapters are also available.

    Pliers

    • Tested for the 1000-volt rating, insulated pliers have specialized applications with more than 20 different varieties available, including straight, angle heads, needle nose, side, tongue and groove. Look for forged tool steels with a hard chrome finish and ergonomic, insulated molded grips.

    Screwdrivers

    • If you do a lot of electrical projects, invest in a set of insulated drivers, certified for 1000-volt work. You can purchase kits with as few as three types of drivers or a kit with nine or more varieties, which should allow you to do almost any type of project. Drivers include slotted, Phillips, torx, nut and square tip.

    Cable Cutters

    • Insulated cable cutters are used to cut solid and multi-strand aluminum and copper cables. A large capacity cutter works best for multi-strand aluminum cables.

    Crimpers

    • Crimpers are used for attaching parts to electrical wires and cables. You'll need a multi-crimp for small projects and a heavy duty, mechanical crimper for large cable projects.

    Strippers

    • Strippers are used to strip a bare area off a wire. Types available are UF, NM, V-Notch,T-5, reflex and 7-in-1.

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