A growing number of utility organizations are making a shift from using traditional synthetic ropes to those with verified dielectric properties.

The tools and equipment employed by electrical workers must possess the necessary insulating properties to ensure user safety. One such tool, dielectric rope, can be overlooked as a component of electrical safety, but modern standards and rigorous testing protocols are transforming the way this type of rope is designed, used and maintained.

The transition from use of traditional synthetic ropes (e.g., double-braided polyester or polypropylene with wax or overlay finishes) – which can absorb contaminants and moisture, thereby significantly reducing their insulating properties – to dielectric ropes represents a paradigm shift in safety. Just as hot sticks, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) tools and arc-rated PPE are subjected to strict maintenance and testing protocols, dielectric ropes must be treated with the same level of scrutiny and care. These ropes are increasingly being used as FRP tool replacements as they can offer lower weight and cost as well as greater flexibility in length and load-bearing capacity.

The remainder of this article will explore relevant global safety standards, the growing industry shift toward insulating rope with verified dielectric properties, and proper maintenance and handling practices to help ensure long-term dielectric rope safety in high-voltage environments.

Key Global Standards
Dielectric rope must undergo rigorous testing to confirm its ability to withstand high voltages, resist contamination and maintain insulating properties over time. These standards outline the requirements for dielectric tools and equipment, including rope:

• IEC 62192:2009: “Live working – Insulating ropes”
• ASTM F1701-12: “Standard Specification for Unused Rope with Special Electrical Properties”
• IEEE 516-2021: “IEEE Guide for Maintenance Methods on Energized Power Lines”
• NFPA 70E and CSA Z462 (arc flash standards)

Misleading Claims and Real-World Testing
For decades, standard synthetic ropes have been assumed to be nonconductive based on their material composition. Real-world testing, however, has demonstrated that these traditional ropes can absorb moisture, dirt and other contaminants, turning them into potential electrical conductors.

Further, lack of awareness and regulation in this area has resulted in the following:

• False marketing of some ropes, claiming that they are dielectric or insulating even though they have never been rigorously tested.
• Erroneous assumptions that test results from one diameter of dielectric rope apply to every diameter.
• Exposure of traditional ropes to water, mud and oil, compromising their insulating properties.
• Dielectric ropes being treated, handled, maintained, tested and inspected differently than hot sticks and FRP tools.

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For more safety insights for the electric utility industry, check out how to optimize arc flash protection, information about equipment stabilization, or some great information on hand protection from electric shock.