[Bill Doig]

If it’s for live LV working, they should be to an international standard. WEL issue all staff insulated tools complying with ESN 60900. Re testing: no as the tooling is only secondary protection i.e. stopping contact with another live conductor or at earth potential potential equipment. Your primary protection is use insulating gloves with insulating mats to cover up all second points of contact

[Stephen Small]

Hi Dave

NZECP 46 references IEC 60900 Amendment 1 (1995-08) Hand Tools for Live Working up to 1000 V a.c. and 1500 V d.c. so we know that at least one other standard exists.

(I can’t recall from memory what the periodic testing requirements were, if any).

[Graeme Johnson]

Mr Doig is on the money?

You can also reference the EEA Guide to Live LV Electrical Work (extract below re tools)

We dont test the tools.

3.8 Insulated Tools
Insulated tools and equipment which are used for live LV work because of their insulation
properties should comply with BSEN 60900:2012 (Live Working – Handtools for use up to
1000V a.c. and 1500V d.c.), or an equivalent internationally recognised Standard.

Immediately prior to use, the insulated tools should be visually checked for defects such
as cuts, abrasions or cracking. Insulated tools should be kept in special containers to
prevent damage while in storage or being transported.

Note: Insulated Tools are available with protective ratings for up to 1000V AC nominal
maximum working voltage and the correctly rated tools must be selected for the nominal
voltage of the equipment to be worked on.

[Peter Berry]

FYI – The EEA ECP 46 HV Live Line Work Industry Practice Note (2017) has updated a number of the Standards referenced in ECP 46.

The IEC 60900 Amendment 1 (1995-08) version has been replaced by IEC 60900 ed 4.0 (2018-06) Hand Tools for Live Working up to 1000 V a.c. and 1500 V d.c.