Knipex VDE Pliers Set (3 Piece)

In-Depth Look

This Knipex set brings together three insulated pliers made from chrome vanadium electric steel, with VDE insulated handles rated to 1000V AC. Insulated tools are one part of safe working near live or potentially live conductors, alongside safe isolation and a suitable risk assessment.

VDE Rating Explained

VDE-marked insulated tools are tested to IEC 60900. Under that standard, the insulation is tested at 10,000V AC and the tools are rated for working at up to 1,000V AC. The standard also covers matters such as the insulation’s mechanical strength. The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 require safe systems of work and suitable equipment; they do not name a particular tool, so follow your employer’s procedures and risk assessment.

The Three-Piece Selection

The set covers three plier types used in electrical installations: combination pliers (180mm) for gripping cable, bending conductors and general handling; diagonal cutters (160mm) for cutting cable; and snipe nose (long nose) pliers (200mm) for reaching into terminal enclosures, forming conductor ends and working in confined spaces.

Build

Knipex states the tools are made from chrome vanadium electric steel, oil-hardened. Check the insulated handles for cuts or damage before each use, and replace any tool with damaged insulation.

Summary

The Knipex 00 20 12 set gives a qualified electrician combination pliers, diagonal cutters and snipe nose pliers in one VDE set rated to 1000V AC and tested to IEC 60900.

How It Compares

The Knipex set 00 20 12 holds three insulated pliers: combination pliers at 180mm, diagonal cutters at 160mm, and snipe nose (long nose) side-cutting pliers at 200mm. They are tested to IEC/EN 60900, the standard for insulated hand tools. Each pair is individually tested to 10,000V AC and rated for work up to 1,000V AC. The grips are multi-component, the heads are chrome plated, and the set comes in a tray with a transparent lid.

The marking on insulated pliers tells you what they have been tested for. The table compares the choices you might weigh up.

For insulated screwdrivers, see the Wera Kraftform VDE screwdriver set. For checking a socket with a plug-in tester, see the Martindale EZ150 socket tester.

Insulated tools are one part of working safely. The rating describes the tool, not the job. Isolate and prove dead before you work, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use a competent person where required.

Common Questions

What does the VDE and 1000V marking mean? It shows the pliers were made and tested for insulated hand tool use to IEC/EN 60900. Here each pair is tested to 10,000V AC and rated for work up to 1,000V AC. A double triangle symbol is commonly used on such tools. Check the markings printed on the tool itself.

Does 1000V insulated mean I can work live? No. Isolate the supply and prove it dead before working. Live working is only done where it is justified and with the right competence, and HSE guidance such as GS38 covers test equipment. The rating is not a reason to work live.

How do I check insulated pliers for damage? Look over the grips for cuts, cracks, and any sign of an inner layer showing through. Retire damaged pliers rather than repair them with tape. Check them each time before use.

Can I use them on DC or battery systems? The rating on this set is stated for AC. Check the markings and the maker’s instructions for anything beyond that, and do not assume.

Can I use them for gas or plumbing work? That is not what they are for. The insulation is designed for electrical work. Use the right tool for the job and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.