VDE Insulated Handles - Superfluous For Most?

[Zinc2005]

It seems to me that with the exclusion of people doing work on live electrical there is really no point in owning VDE grip tools for 99% of users.

Even if a mistake is made and having a VDE handle temporarily prevents shock, it is far from a certainty that the user will identify the presence of a live line and are likely to make contact while manipulating wiring.

Am I crazy or are the safety benefits for 99% of users just an illusion when we consider the full scope of an average home electrical repair?

 

[ggielen]

I've asked myself the same question, once the breaker is turned off there is no point? I have some, but simply because they were cheaper than the non-VDE version due to being on sale and the regulars weren't.

 

[Kfulton77]

Accidents do happen though. Diy home owners no. But tradesman yes. We dig around in panels at work and always use insulatd tools. Live bus bars are always present. Using lockout tags and whatnot is very important. I've personally worked on a circut that was energized by someone else since the panel was 2 floors away from the work. Didn't get blasted but still wasn't happy. It was my own fault. Most places have a no hot work policy but people still do it. I love vde tools. They make them for a reason and if u work with electrical often it's worth the investment. May save u some serious uncomfortabity or even your life.