Access Equipment
Welcome to the access equipment section of our tool reviews. Here you can find a range of product reviews to help you carry out jobs safely and efficiently, such as ladders, platforms and hop-ups.
Check out the reviews to find out which access equipment product is right for you…
Quickwire T-Connector Plug & Socket
EC4U Rating:
Features: Time saving device that allows you to connect downlighters quickly and efficiently Compact design that will fit through a 30mm diameter One piece plug easily snaps shut with a cord grip Downlighters are a popular choice of lighting fixture for homeowners, mainly due to being discreet, minimalist and ideal for low ceilings. However, for […]
Read moreCK Magma Technician’s PRO Wheeled Case
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Durable chassis, wheels and telescopic handle for domestic, site and commercial use 50 different compartments and pockets for your tools Larger compartment for bulkier tools, such as drills and testing equipment A4 document storage pouch When travelling to and from jobs, having a tool bag big enough to fit all of your tools and […]
Read moreKnipex Cable Shears
EC4U Rating: 
Insulated handles and VDE tested Chrome plated, hook blade for an even cut Suitable for cutting copper, aluminium and stranded cables up to 15mm Knipex have more than 130 years of experience in designing and manufacturing high end tools. Each product has been designed with reliability in mind. These Cable Shears are no different, with […]
Read moreKlein 160mm Insulated Diagonal Cutters – 2206EINS
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Newly designed diagonal cutter. VDE rated up to 1000V Unique three part insulation, with a white under layer which aids as a warning sign if the insulation is damaged. Hot-riveted joint for a smooth action. We were recently sent a pair of the new Klein Tools 6” diagonal cutters for testing within our centre. […]
Read moreSuper Rod – Mega Set CRMX
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Features: 16 different rods of varying flexibility and strength, with 15 attachments included in the special Anniversary Set. Includes 5 special glow in the dark attachments: domed bullet, mini eye, claw, domed eye and mini hook. Rods included are: 3 x 6mm black Adoxim 5 1m rods 6 x 5mm red Adoxim 5 1 m […]
Read moreBosch GTC 400C Thermal Camera
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Features: Integrated visual camera and infrared sensor resolution of 160×120 pixels. Quickly visualise and analyse differences in temperature, and document the results easily. 5” colour display for thermal imaging. Micro USB port for data transfer and integrated WiFi hotspot for transferring reports via the Bosch Measuring Master App. Robust design, IP 53 rated with a […]
Read moreKlein Tools Self Adjusting Wire Stripper/Cutter
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Features: Cuts and strips cable up to 4mm twin and earth and up to 6mm single. Tension thumb wheel gives you control for a precise stripping of smaller wires. Useful wire cutting blade in between handles. A quality pair of wire strippers are essential for every electrician. Klein have released a self adjusting wire stripper/cutter, […]
Read moreScruffs Workwear Trade Active Polo Top
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Lightweight, Slimfit design active polo top Suitable for logo customisation Zipper chest pocket and piping detail The Scruffs workwear range offers a variety of professional options for tradespeople to make the best first impression. We have previously reviewed their jacket, trousers and shoes to test just how tough they really were. With summer here, […]
Read moreIrwin Tools Vise-Grip Cable Cutters 8″
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Made from chromium nickel steel, with moulded ProTouch handles for extra comfort Cuts through copper and aluminium wire, up to 16mm Induction hardened edges for a sharp finish Cable cutters are an essential tool for electricians and everyone has their own preferred brand. Irwin Tools is a brand that we have never reviewed before […]
Read moreKlein Insulated Wire Stripper and Cutter
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Cuts, strips and crimps both solid and stranded wire. Spring loaded return on handle, for self opening. Insulated up to 1000V, and features 3 layers of insulation, with the white underlayer acting as a warning sign that insulation is damaged. Serrated nose, for bending, pulling and shaping of wire. Klein Tools have released a […]
Read moreWiha Soft Finish 7 Piece Screwdriver Set
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Features: Set of VDE rated screwdrivers, x 2 pozi (#1 x 80 and #2 x 100mm) and x 4 slotted (2.5 x 75, 3.5 x 100, 4.5 x 125, 5.5 x 125mm). Ergonomic handle design with comfortable grip. An essential set of reliable and durable VDE screwdrivers is an essential to any electrician currently working […]
Read moreDiall LED Rechargeable Work Light 10W
EC4U Rating: 
Features: IP54 rated 10W work light, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Long 3 hour run time and 5 hour charge time. Comes with a car charger for easy charging on the go. Working on site in dark conditions can be difficult, especially in winter, which is why standalone worklights can be very […]
Read moreScruffs Workwear and Safety Footwear
EC4U Rating: 
Your professional image is very important to your business and career. If you want to get positive reviews and referrals, as well as being skilled, polite and reliable, you also need to look the part. Scruffs are the UK’s leading workwear brand and want you to look the business, so you get the business. They […]
Read moreKlein Tools Non-Contact Voltage Tester Comparison
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Klein Tools have produced three non-contact voltage testers that make finding cables and detecting voltage simple and accurate. Each voltage tester pen has a different function and feature, but all give both visual and sound detection. The NCVT-4IR is the newest one in their line of non-contact voltage testers and covers two uses in one; […]
Read moreFluke 561 Infrared and Contact Thermometer
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Comes with a K type thermocouple Measures both infrared and contact temperature Single point laser sighting with a temperature range of -40C to 550C 12 hour battery life and most suitable for industrial/commercial or HVAC work If a large part of your job revolves around heating, ventilation or air conditioning (HVAC) work, an infrared […]
Read moreKlein Tools Wireless Jobsite Speaker
EC4U Rating: 
Features: 10 hour battery life and drop protected up to 2 meters Speaker connects wirelessly to your phone via Bluetooth or to your device through auxiliary cable. Range goes up to 10m Connects to either Klein Tool Bag or can be used on metal surfaces with the strong magnet on the back IP45 rated for […]
Read moreVan Vault 3, Stacker XL and Stacker
EC4U Rating: 
In the spirit of Christmas, we have teamed up with Van Vault to give away a brand new Van Vault 3 to one lucky tradesperson! Find out at the end of this review how you can win the ultimate van security product! (competition now closed) Features: Van Vault 3 2mm sheet steel construction with fully phosphate anti-corrosion […]
Read moreWiha TriCut Installation Pliers
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Three tools in one: diagonal cutter, stripping pliers and skinning pliers. VDE rated and individually tested for up 10,000V. Angled head means you can get to hard to reach places. Suitable for cutting hard and soft cables and wires, but best for fire protection cables. Wiha are a German tool manufacturing brand, with over […]
Read moreWiha SlimVario VDE Screwdriver Set (16 pieces)
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Features: Set includes: SlimVario screwdriver bit holder and 15 interchangeable SlimBits, all contained in a roll up pouch. Integrated blade insulation and VDE certified. Roll off protection, with ergonomic handle design. Wiha are well known for their ergonomic tool design, with soft finish handles that supply not only a good grip but also prevent back […]
Read moreAdjustable Spanner Comparison: Monument, Ox and Bahco
EC4U Rating: 
Many assume it is just plumbers who use spanners on site, but they are also an extremely useful tool for electricians to have in their tool bag too. If you don’t have an extensive set of gland spanners, electricians will most often use smaller adjustable spanners for SWA and tightening glands as they are easy […]
Read moreWeidmuller Ratchet Crimping Tool for Bootlace Ferrules
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Quick and precise crimping with adjustable rotating head. Will crimp from 0.14mm² to 6mm² cable. Rotating die head allows for versatile ferrule insertion, from either front on or from the side. If you are crimping regularly on site, either insulated or un-insulated, you need a reliable tool that ensures quick and precise crimping. Weidmuller’s […]
Read moreStarrett Debris Collector
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Silicone bowl flexes to keep dust and debris inside and contained, removing any clean up time. Works alongside holesaw arbour and drill chuck, without any interference and with minimal effort. Best used when cutting holes in the ceiling for downlighters, eliminating the need to clean up and the risk of dust spraying. Tidiness and cleanliness […]
Read moreKnipex 95 12 500 Cable Shears
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Large cutting capacity shears with 27mm diameter, perfect for cutting copper lengths, multi stranded cables and aluminium single conductors. Long 500mm handles for better leverage. Clean cut finish with minimal effort, with oil hardened steel blades. Knipex is a name that has been long associated with quality and high performance tools. Their specialty lies […]
Read moreQuickwire Prewired Junction Box
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Time saving prewired junction box that speeds up installation time on site. At 32mm thick, it is small and compact to fit above the ceiling for a variety of lighting fixtures Two different products to cover your everyday needs and also work together. There’s a new, revolutionary product on the market for electricians and […]
Read moreCK Tools VDE CombiCutter3 160mm
EC4U Rating: 
Features: VDE rated combination cutters, tested up to 10,000V and protects you working up 1,000V. Ergonomic handle design with rubberised, comfortable grip. CombiCutter3 bends, strips and shears: sharp and precise blades, with damage free wire stripping, doubles back wires very quickly and also features 3.5mm pattress (faceplate) screw shear. No electrician can be without a […]
Read moreKlein Tradesman Pro Organiser Tool Bag with LED Light
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Features: Secure, large tool bag with a variety of 31 storage pouches for tools and documents. Hard, waterproof base to keep tools dry. Heavily padded strap and padlock facility on zip. Versatile removable LED light with magnet to stick to consumer unit or turned around to illuminate inside of the bag. With long days on […]
Read moreCK Tools VDE Stubby Screwdriver
EC4U Rating: 
Features: The world’s first fixed VDE rated stubby screwdriver, with a variety of sizes available: slotted 4mm and 5.5mm, PZ2 and MOD2. VDE rated up to 1,000V. Stubby handle allows you to get into small, confined spaces and the slim blades means you can reach recessed screws. We are big fans of CK Tools at […]
Read moreKewtech KEW8031F Phase Rotation Tester
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Fused test leads with guards for added safety when holding in place. Rotating disk indicator which is designed to check the presence of open phase and phase sequence. Tool is able to check a range of 3 phase power, from 110V to 600V. This small and portable tester is designed to check phase sequence […]
Read moreWiha VDE Stubby Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Interchangeable VDE rated SlimVario blades, pop on and off to change. Pocket sized stubby screwdriver for those hard to reach places. Handle is multi faceted to ensure firm grip and non-slip. Blades included in the set: Phillips PH2, Phillips PZ2, and slotted 3.5mm. Don’t underestimate the power of a Stubby screwdriver. They may not […]
Read moreStarrett Oops Arbor for Hole Enlargements
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Suitable for when you need to drill out a hole and make it bigger. Works by attaching a same size hole saw as the hole, which then acts as a pilot for the larger holesaw size. Replaces the need for a pilot drill. For moments when you’ve made a mistake and used a holesaw […]
Read moreJokari Cable Knife System 4-70
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Easy stripping and dismantling of cables with just one tool. New design has increased safety features, with automatic blade protection that covers the hook blade when the tool slips off the cable. Updated to have a new sight window in the hook attachments, so you can see exactly when the cut lines up. More […]
Read moreNut Inserts – Compact Riveting Gun and Threaded Rivet Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Prolongs the life of a metal clad consumer unit, where the screws are loose and the thread is worn out. Hundreds of metal clad consumer units are being installed every day across the country. However, in some cases, the thread for screws can get worn out on metal boards. In most cases, if a […]
Read moreKlein Tools High Tension Hacksaw
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Handy blade storage in the handle, for both long and short blades. Adjustable tension up to 30000 PSI for precise and quick cuts. Hacksaw comes with 2 blades: 305mm (12 inch) 24TPI bi-metal hacksaw blade and 152mm (6 inch) 24 TPI bi-metal reciprocating saw blade. Front mount on hacksaw for reciprocating saw blade. Soft […]
Read moreJokari All Rounder Wire Stripper
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Can strip any type of flat cable and round flex from 4-15mm. Useful, handy small size to carry in your tool belt and bag. Blade doesn’t damage the conductors and has 2 preset stripping notches with length stop (1.5mm and 2.5mm). Longitudinal cut blade for dismantling cables. Every tool designed by Jokari aims to […]
Read moreMagnepull Wire & Cable Pulling System
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Eliminate damage to walls and numerous trips in and out of attics while on the job. Strong magnet that clears a path and pulls your cables through. Cuts down your wire/cable fishing time by up to 70% Helps make installations in small spaces easier. The Magnepull is an American invention, which makes cable pulling […]
Read moreSkil X-act Laser Distance Measure
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Fast laser measuring technology that produces accurate reading, with a typical accuracy of ± 3.0mm. Precise measurements of length, area and volume, also comes with the option of switching between metric and imperial. Small, compact product, with a handy belt hoop. Will automatically turn off if left unused for 5 minutes and will indicate […]
Read moreKlein 3 Piece Slotted Screw Holding Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Guaranteed no-slip, screw holding screwdrivers with split blade driver. Set of 3 screwdrivers: 5mm, 6mm, 8mm tips. Simple, easy to use and securely grips screws. Comes in a clear vinyl pouch for easy transportation. Klein Tools have to come to every electricians rescue with their latest Screw Holding Screwdriver. The tool has been designed […]
Read moreMarXman Pen
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Marks drilling spots through firing chalk into holes up to 45mm deep (another version is available for 45mm+ deep holes) Quick and easy to use, it can mark on any surface (tiling, concrete, metal, plaster, etc) Chalk solution which can be wiped off, leaving no marks. Designed by a qualified engineer and maintenance […]
Read moreKlein Auto Loading Retractable Utility Knife
EC4U Rating: 
Features: High quality auto loading blades, for a safer and quicker blade change. Internal blade storage, which will hold up to 3 blades at a time. Heavy duty performance, that is still comfortable to hold and use for longer tasks. Auto locks, cannot close the knife when the blade it out. Klein strive for the […]
Read moreCK Tools Sheet Steel Holesaw Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Set of 3 holesaws: 20mm, 25mm, 32mm Cut depth of 1.6mm Quicker, clearner and smoother than previous holesaw designs Ridge on the holesaw prevents from it sliding through to damage cables CK Tools have designed a superior sheet steel holesaw that beats all others on the market today. We recently compared this set of […]
Read moreKlein VDE Insulated Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: VDE rated up to 1000V and meets the current regulations. Lifetime guarantee and includes 5 screwdrivers (3 slotted and 2 Pozidrive). Anti-roll, comfortable handle and lightweight design. Klein has been designing tools since 1857 and their mission remains the same: to produce quality tools that meets or excels the needs of everyone, including tradespeople. […]
Read moreHitachi 18V Cordless Drill Set – Driver and Combi Drill
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Driver drill is suitable for wood and steel, while the combi drill covers wood, steel and masonry. Pivoting work light. Max torque of 53Nm hard for driver drill & max torque of 55Nm hard for combi drill. Soft grip handle, comfortable to use and lightweight to carry around. x2 1.5ah batteries, with a 40 […]
Read moreNWS VDE Cable Cutters
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Designed for cutting and stripping aluminium and copper cables Precise, clean cut Crimp free cutting ensured by the ratchet shaped clamping of cabling Soft grip and non-slip handles, with safety regulations sleeve according to DIN EN/IEC 60900 VDE 1000v rated to cut up to 16mm squared tails NWS are an internationally renowned brand of […]
Read moreKnipex 250mm Plier Wrench
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Jaw capacity of 46mm and overall length 250mm Nickel plated finish and crafted from chrome vanadium steel Multi-purpose tool: pliers and wrench in one Strong and powerful for gripping, with a lever ratio greater than 10:1 Ratchet principle for quick and easy release and tightening Knipex are well known in the trade industry for […]
Read moreNewlec Multi Purpose MCB Lock Off Kit
EC4U Rating: 
A lock off kit is essential to any electrician, providing the ultimate security for electrical circuits. After completing the safe isolation procedure, the system is considered safe to lock off and begin work. Alternatively, if the system is not considered safe or it is dangerous, then it is used to ensure systems are shut off properly […]
Read moreCK Tools Plasterboard Punch
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Three steeped steel shafts, 5mm, 6mm and 7mm. Shatterproof acetate handle with steel strike-through cap to withstand hammer blows. Multipurpose product – the cone point tip can also be used for marking and scribing on plasterboard. Carl Kammerling (CK Tools) are known for their tool innovation, putting together new products that make the lives […]
Read moreKewtech KEWISO2 Safe Isolation Kit
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Kit contains three core elements of safe isolation: lock off kit, proving unit and UK specific KT1780 two pole tester. KT1780 can carry out: continuity test, self diagnostic test, phase rotation test, polarity test and single pole phase test. Luminous, oversized LEDs show voltage level. GS38 compliant. Tests up to 690V and is designed […]
Read moreCK Tools ArmourSlice
EC4U Rating: 
Features: “50% quicker than conventional stripping methods” Robust metal alloy body for strength and durability Capacity for wide stripping of 12mm up to 36mm in diameter Long lasting, high performance steel alloy cutting blade 5 cutting blades included Many electricians will be familiar with the Stanley knife and junior saw method of stripping Steel Wired […]
Read moreCK Tools 1000v VDE Interchangeable Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: 1000V VDE High Torque Screwdriver Handle 1000V VDE Precision Screwdriver Handle 1000V VDE Screwdriver Interchangeable Blades: – Slotted sizes: 3mm, 4mm, 5.5mm, 6.5mm. – PZ1 & PZ2 – Modulo (Plus and Minus) size 2 Fabric pouch with belt hoop This VDE approved screwdriver set covers many bases for electricians. In a handy, compact sized […]
Read moreKlein Pliers & Screwdrivers
EC4U Rating: 
Since 1857, Klein Tools have been dedicated to professional tradesmen worldwide. CEF recently approached us to review three of their most popular Klein tools to see how they ranked for domestic installers. We put the electrician tools to the test in real-life, domestic scenarios, with experienced electrical trainers and customers on hand. We tested: Electrician’s Insulated […]
Read moreDraper Tools Combination Ladder and Platform
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Versatile access equipment that can be utilised in 3 different positions: straight ladder, ‘A’ frame ladder and a work platform. Work platform can be up to 1m in height to work from. ‘A’ frame ladder height can reach up to 1.6m and the straight extension ladder 2.7m. Non-slip surface work platform and a safety […]
Read moreHeat Gun & Heat Shrink Tubing
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Micro-therm heat guns can be used in confined spaces and heats up to 650°C. Heat shrink tubing comes in a variety of colours and sizes to suit the job. Heat gun is easily refillable and features safety lock. Tubing shrinks cables up to ½ of the original size Heat shrink tubing Heat shrink tubing is extremely […]
Read moreWago Connectors
EC4U Rating: 
Wago styles and sizes available: Multi-way lever connectors Multi-way Push wire connectors Lighting connectors Lever connectors junction box Wago connectors are a simple solution for hidden connections, which can be maintenance free and replace junction boxes, terminal strips and block (choc block). The company prides itself on continuously keeping on top of industry trends and […]
Read moreKnipex Crimping Tool
EC4U Rating: 
Crimping Tool Features: Tool is for crimping end sleeves (ferrules) from 0.25 up to 2.5 mm² For reliable connections between the sleeve and the conductor, the tool crimps have clear and precise sizing indicators Vanadium electric steel – oil-hardened Knipex claim to be the world’s leading brand in pliers today. Their tools are guided by the customers’ needs […]
Read moreWera VDE Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
Features: 1,000v VDE torque screwdriver fully rated and conforms to IEC60900: 2004 Adjustable torque setting range of 1.2-3Nm; adjustment by sight and feel 14 UltraSlim Kraftform VDE blades included Easy change blades: press in auto-lock, easy release Non slip grip handle, comfortable for long use Blades and handle come in a belt loop pouch, for […]
Read moreJokari Flat Cable Stripper
EC4U Rating: 
Features: Two or three core flat cables (and with uninsulated copper earth continuity conductor) PVC sheathed and insulated Easy to grip and use It comes with an unlimited stripping range Automatic cable size adjustment Interchangeable, hardened blades Includes a built in wire bending hole Cable strippers are an essential tool for electricians, so finding a […]
Read moreLighthouse COB LED Torch
EC4U Rating: 
The Lighthouse COB LED Torch is perfect for any job; whether you are in the trade or not. This slimline, light and easy to use torch covers a range of purposes and comes out shining. Features: Easy to use on/off button Red flashing hazard light COB LED light panel (220 lumens) LED spotlight (120 lumens) […]
Read moreKewtech KT65DL Multifunction Tester
EC4U Rating: 
KT65DL Features: Continuity with auto null Insulation 250V, 500V and 1000V Loop – high and low current PSC/PFC Measurement RCD with 30mA auto test Mains polarity IP54 rating Padded neck strap for comfort Test probe/remote button Bonus LED for warning of high voltage outputs in insulation test mode Backlit display screen, with all results from RCD […]
Read moreArmeg VDE Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Set
EC4U Rating: 
When City Electrical Factors (CEF) came in to show us Armeg‘s brand new VDE Adjustable Torque Screwdriver Set, we knew we had to buy a couple to review them and put it through its paces at our busy electrical training centre! It’s been labelled as the “ultimate” model and it certainly lives up to the name in our opinion. The […]
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