Insulated tools

Do not permit employees to approach or carry any conductive object closer than 10 feet to an energized fine. The only exception is for trained and qualified employees using insulated tools designed for high voltage fines. 

Use safety features like three-prong plugs, double-insulated tools, and safety switches. Keep machine guards in place and follow proper procedures. 

Calnan CD (1972) Colophony dermatitis from insulated tools. 

Employers may use the phase-to-phase minimum approach distances in this table provided that no insulated tool spans the gap and no large conductive object is in the gap. 

Insulated tools and equipment, (i) The employer shall ensure that the insulated equipment, insulated tools, and aerial devices and platforms used by employees are designed, tested, and made for live-line barehand work. 

In Equation 1, C is 0.01 (1) For phase-to-ground exposures that the employer can demonstrate consist only of air across the approach distance (gap) and (2) for phase-to-phase exposures if the employer can demonstrate that no insulated tool spans the gap and that no large conductive object is in the gap. Otherwise, C is 0.011. 

A. 1 Yes, but there are some limitations to choosing the double insulation option. Section 1926.404(f)(7)(iv) states that electric power tools must be grounded except when they are double insulated. The standard allows double insulation instead of grounding within certain limitations double insulated tools are not to be used in a hazardous location and must not to be operated at over 150 volts to ground. Also, double insulated tools must be distinctively marked. 

Select a workplace and run a check on the electrical safety aspects. Include, for example, fuses, insulation, tools, cords, power outlets, switchboxes, and safety devices. 

Only qualified persons may work on electric circuit parts or equipment that have not been de-energized. These employees must be capable of working safely on energized circuits and be familiar with the proper use of special precautionary techniques, personal protective equipment, insulating and shielding materials, and insulated tools. 

Use insulated tools or handling equipment if the tools or handhng equipment might make contact with exposed energized conductors or circuit parts. 

Qualified employees must be trained and competent in distinguishing exposed live parts, determining nominal voltage, minimum approach distances, use of precautionary techniques, PPE, insulating and shielding materials, insulated tools, and recognition of electrical hazards. 

Many burn injuries are caused by flame arcs emitted with explosive violence when short circuits occur in apparatus where the fault levels are high. The short circuits often take place during live working when conductive parts such as bolts, nuts and washers are accidentally dropped and bridge between a phase conductor and earthed metalwork, or between phases. Another common cause is the use of uninsulated or insufficiently insulated tools which can bridge conductors in the same way. 

Short circuit and electrolyte spill Operator error that causes a short circuit is a main safety concern in the field. It is important to keep the top of the battery clean to prevent ground short circuits. Operators should be instructed not to place metallic objects or any electrical conductor on the battery. In addition, all tools used in servicing batteries should be insulated. When lifting batteries, use insulated tools to avoid the risk of causing a short circuit between cell terminals and lifting tools. 

Eye protection must be provided and used whenever work involves using cold chisels, drills, grinders or other tools where there is a risk of flying particles or pieces of the tool breaking off. Open-bladed knives, screwdrivers and other sharp tools are to be carried and used so as not to cause injury to the user or others. Non-ferrous (spark-free) tools must be used in flammable atmospheres. Insulated tools must be used where there is a possibility of live electrical work. 

Failure to supply or inspect double insulated tools... 

---