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When purchasing a torque driver installers should always look for the VDE trademark, symbolising that the tool has the necessary insulation to make it safe to use on electrical parts. Alongside this there should also be a voltage limit, which indicates the voltage that the tool is safe to work with. As a general rule of thumb, electricians should opt for torque tools that have been tested and guaranteed to insulate to 1000V AC as standard.<\/p>\n
Most adjustable torque screwdrivers allow the torque to be set to any value within a range and all have a torque-limiting clutch that disengages once the pre-set torque has been reached. With so many driver options available to suit all types of work, from digital, analogue and variable torque handles through to the various blade and tip options, wholesalers would do well to offer a dedicated torque driver set which will ensure every situation is covered.<\/p>\n
Electricians\u2019 tools do, of course, need to offer a good level of insulation to ensure safety, which often means that they are bulky, and won\u2019t fit into the space or hole housing the screw. Some electricians attempt to get around this problem by stripping back the insulation in order to achieve the perfect fit \u2013 a far from perfect solution that could actually be potentially fatal. A safer alternative is to use a specially designed tool that is VDE insulated, yet slim enough to fit in even the tightest of fixings.<\/p>\n
Tool ergonomics<\/h5>\n
But simply choosing a VDE approved screwdriver or pair of pliers to guard against electric shocks isn\u2019t enough to protect their health and safety while at work.<\/p>\n
Tightening and untightening screws can cause enormous strain on an electrician\u2019s hands and wrists, and can even lead to costly time off. This is why an ergonomically designed screwdriver can help electricians work more efficiently and put far less strain on their health.<\/p>\n
Using ergonomically designed hand tools not only has a positive effect on an installer\u2019s hands, it can also reduce back and joint pain and increase health and safety levels in the workplace. Wholesalers should therefore consider stocking hand tools that have been ergonomically designed, as they can go much further than simply preventing a few blisters; they can help reduce the amount of sick leave through damaged joints, muscles and tendons.<\/p>\n
Wiha fastening tools, for example, feature an ergonomic handle size, aiming to ensure more comfortable, longer and above all pain-free work for users. This was scrupulously tested by a team of doctors and professional therapists who awarded the brand\u2019s SoftFinish, SoftFinish electric, MicroFinish and SoftFinish ESD handles the AGR (Aktion Gesunder R\u00fccken e.V. \u2013 German Campaign for Healthier Backs) seal of distinction.<\/p>\n
The AGR promotes and researches the prevention of back pain, offering recommendations on products that help to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and back pain.<\/p>\n
Hand tools are vital pieces of any electrician\u2019s kit, but with safety and efficiency the watchwords of the industry, not just any old tools will do, so stocking the latest innovations from quality brands will help wholesalers set their stall out as a hand tool specialist and can be used to generate fast sales, easy turnover and a loyal customer base.<\/p>\n