Insulated hand tools (IEC 60900)
Screwdrivers, pliers, cutters, spanners and sockets for work near live parts should be insulated to IEC 60900, rated for 1000 V AC (1500 V DC). Each tool is tested at a much higher voltage in the factory and carries the double-triangle symbol with "1000 V". Tools with a two-colour insulation show wear when the inner colour appears. Insulated tools reduce risk; they are not a reason to work live without a safe system of work.
Multimeters and clamp meters: CAT ratings
IEC 61010 sets measurement categories by how much transient energy a circuit can deliver. The closer to the supply, the higher the category the meter needs.
| Category | Where it applies |
|---|---|
| CAT II | Equipment connected to sockets: appliances, portable tools |
| CAT III | Fixed installation: distribution boards, MCCs, busbars, motors, fixed wiring |
| CAT IV | Origin of the installation: incoming supply, meters, main switchboard incomer, outdoor lines |
For industrial panels, a meter rated CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V is a common choice. Test leads and probes must carry at least the same rating; the lowest-rated part sets the rating of the whole set. Our CAT rating tool helps you check.
Voltage testers and proving dead
To prove a circuit dead, use a two-pole voltage tester to IEC 61243-3, not a multimeter set to the wrong range and not a non-contact pen, which can miss voltage. Follow the prove-test-prove sequence: check the tester on a known live source or a proving unit, test the circuit between all conductors and to earth, then check the tester again.
Insulation and earth testers
- Insulation resistance tester: applies a DC test voltage, typically 250, 500 or 1000 V. For circuits up to 500 V, IEC 60364-6 uses 500 V DC with a minimum of 1 MΩ. Disconnect drives, surge protection and electronics first, or they can be damaged or give false readings.
- Earth resistance tester: three or four-pole for electrodes and soil resistivity, or a clamp-on tester for multi-earthed systems.
- Multifunction installation tester (IEC 61557): loop impedance, RCD trip time and continuity in one instrument, used for verification of new and modified circuits.
Lockout and tagout
Isolation is only safe if it stays isolated. A lockout kit includes personal safety padlocks (one per person, one key each), multi-lock hasps so several workers can lock one isolator, lockout devices for MCBs, MCCBs and plug tops, valve lockouts for process isolation, and danger tags with the person's name. Our padlock selector helps choose shackle size and material for each device.
Arc-rated PPE and insulating gloves
Arc-rated clothing (IEC 61482-2) and face protection are chosen from an arc-flash risk assessment of the equipment, which gives the incident energy in cal/cm²; choose PPE with an arc rating above it. Our arc-flash PPE tool explains the levels.
Insulating rubber gloves to IEC 60903 are rated by class:
| Class | 00 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max. use voltage (AC) | 500 V | 1000 V | 7.5 kV | 17 kV | 26.5 kV | 36 kV |
Wear leather protectors over them, check them with an air test before each use, store them away from sun and heat, and have them re-tested at the interval your safety rules and the standard require.
Safety footwear
Safety footwear to ISO 20345 has a toe cap tested at 200 J; codes such as S1P or S3 add penetration resistance and water resistance. For electrical work, note that antistatic is not insulating: where insulating footwear is needed, choose electrically insulating footwear to EN 50321-1 with the right class. Our footwear code tool explains each marking.
What to send us for a quotation
The number of technicians, the highest voltage they work on, the type of work (panels, motors, cabling, high voltage), and any items you already have. Add sizes for gloves and footwear. We quote complete kits or single items, with the standard marked for each.
Common questions
Which CAT rating do I need for a distribution board?
At least CAT III at the system voltage. For work at the incoming supply or main incomer, choose CAT IV. A meter rated CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V covers most industrial work.
Can I use a non-contact voltage pen to prove dead?
No. Use a two-pole voltage tester to IEC 61243-3 and check it on a known live source before and after the test.
Which glove class is for 400 V work?
Class 00 is rated for up to 500 V AC and class 0 for up to 1000 V AC. The choice follows your safety rules and the risk assessment.
Need these items? Send your list or a nameplate photo; your quotation arrives within 24 hours.
This guide is general information. Final selection must follow the project design, the applicable standards and the maker's data.