Workshop setup · 5 min read · 20 October 2026
The electrician's test instrument kit: what to carry and why
A starter and upgrade list of test instruments for maintenance electricians: multimeter, clamp meter, insulation tester, earth tester and phase sequence indicator.
A maintenance electrician rarely needs a van full of equipment. Five instruments handle most faults, and each answers a different question.
- Multimeter: is voltage present, is the circuit continuous, is that component open?
- Clamp meter: how much current is this motor or feeder drawing, without disconnecting anything?
- Insulation tester: is the insulation on this motor, cable or panel still healthy?
- Earth tester: is the earth pit still doing its job?
- Phase sequence indicator: will this motor run the right way round?
Add these as the work grows
- Micro-ohm meter, to check breaker contacts and busbar joints.
- Relay test set for protection testing work.
- Oil BDV test set if you service transformers.
Buy once, buy right
Test instruments are used in rough conditions and relied on for safety. Choose models rated for your environment, keep the leads in good shape and re-calibrate on a regular schedule.
Tip. Treat the insulation tester as de-energised-only equipment. Isolate, test, discharge, then reconnect.
