IEC 60900:2018

Overview

IEC 60900:2018 - Live working - Hand tools for use up to 1 000 V AC and 1 500 V DC specifies safety, performance and testing requirements for insulated, insulating and hybrid hand tools intended for live working or work close to live parts at nominal voltages up to 1 000 V AC / 1 500 V DC. This fourth edition (technical revision) replaces the 2012 edition, adds hybrid hand tools as a third category and includes an informative Annex A with examples. The standard was prepared where applicable in accordance with IEC 61477 and includes corrigenda from Jan 2019 and May 2020.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope & definitions: classifies insulated, insulating and hybrid hand tools and sets electrical working limits.
• Safety & performance: requirements for safe use by skilled persons, labelling and user instructions.
• Materials & construction: requirements for insulating materials, thermal stability and exposed conductive parts on hybrid tools.
• Marking & documentation: mandatory marking (including the double-triangle symbol for live-working) and instructions for assembly, adjustment and care.
• Test program: comprehensive type and routine tests, including:
  • Impact tests
  • Dielectric tests (with conditioning and leakage checks)
  • Indentation and adhesion tests for insulation coatings
  • Mechanical strength and durability tests
  • Flame-retardancy tests
  • Durability of marking
• Conformity assessment: procedures for hand tools that have completed production, including classification of defects and re-testing.
• Maintenance guidance: informative Annex D provides recommendations for storage, inspection before use, periodic examination and electrical retesting.

Applications and who uses it

IEC 60900:2018 is essential for:

• Manufacturers and product designers of insulated, insulating and hybrid hand tools to ensure compliant design and production.
• Testing and certification laboratories performing type and routine tests and conformity assessments.
• Procurement and compliance officers specifying tools for electrical utilities, maintenance contractors and industrial facilities.
• Safety managers, electricians and skilled live-working personnel who rely on correct marking, instructions and in-service care to reduce electrical hazards.
• Regulators and standards committees referencing consistent requirements for live-working tools.

Related standards

• IEC 61477 (live working - insulating equipment)
• IEC 60417-5216 (graphical symbol - double triangle “suitable for live working”)
• ISO 1174 (referenced for square-drive dimensions in testing)

IEC 60900:2018 is a practical, safety-focused standard for anyone involved in the design, testing, procurement or use of hand tools for live electrical work.