Of all the various trades, electricians may face some of the most risks on a daily basis. Along with the possibility of being electrocuted, electricians are also at risk of sustaining serious burns and other injuries that could be life-altering or life-threatening. Because of this, it is vital contractors always have access to the best tools when on the job. As to which tools are the best at keeping electrical contractors safe, here are some you should always have in your toolbox.
Insulated Screwdrivers
Should a screwdriver that is not insulated accidentally make contact with an energized circuit or other components of an electrical system, the result could be catastrophic. To maintain high levels of safety, you should always use insulated screwdrivers when performing electrical work. Since these tools come with blade coating and dielectric handles, they can offer protection up to 1000 volts, which can usually prevent electrocution.
Benders and Wire Strippers
Because electrical systems are comprised of various types of metal, it’s important that you have the equipment you need to safely tackle any project. You will definitely need electric benders for rigid conduit in order to make adjustments without harming yourself or the electrical system.
Don’t forget to also have a gauged wire stripper with you when on the job. Featuring graduated holes along its jaws, a wire stripper can remove insulation without damaging the conductor underneath. Should you decide to use cabling knives or linesman pliers instead, you run the risk of nicking wires and getting quite a shock.
Voltage Sniffer
While this sounds like a dog that has been specifically trained for electrical work, it is not. Instead, it’s a small tool that can come in very handy when you are trying to make sure circuits are not still live after you have shut them off at the breaker box. While standard receptacle testers are good, they are known to sometimes provide a false negative reading, meaning you may think a circuit is off when actually electricity is still present. Since a voltage sniffer does not need to make physical contact with anything, it is a much safer and more accurate alternative.
Protective Eyewear
Last but not least, you should always wear protective eyewear when on the job as an electrical contractor. Whether you opt for goggles, safety glasses, or even a face shield, having this level of protection for your eyes will guard against flying sparks, dust, dirt, and other debris that could get into your eyes and either impair or damage your vision.
By doing all you can to stay safe on the job, you can continue to be an electrical contractor for many years and have peace of mind when performing even the most dangerous of tasks.
