Volt Safety offers the Novax range of Dielectric Insulated Blankets, which comply with ASTM D1048 — the standard covering rubber insulating blankets for electrical work. Novax engineers every blanket for high-dielectric performance, resistance to harsh environmental conditions, and long service life.
Key Benefits of Electrical Insulation Blankets
1. Enhanced Worker Safety Around Live Equipment
Working around energised systems carries serious risks. In fact, according to Safe Work Australia, electrical contact remains a leading cause of workplace fatalities in the industry.
Novax insulation blankets act as a high-dielectric barrier, covering exposed live components so workers can operate nearby without direct exposure. As a result, they cut the risk of accidental contact from tools, body parts, or conductive material, and they support compliance with safe work procedures for energised electrical work.
2. Reliable Protection in Harsh Australian Conditions
Outdoor substations, dusty worksites, and high-humidity environments are the reality for many Australian electrical workers. That is why Novax Type II blankets use EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber, which resists ozone, UV, moisture, and weathering.
So they suit the conditions common across Australian utility and infrastructure work, whether that is a dry inland substation or a coastal installation.
3. Versatility Across Industries and Applications
Novax insulation blankets suit a wide range of Australian industries and job types:
- Power distribution and substations
- Oil, gas, and resources sector
- Construction and civil electrical works
- Manufacturing and industrial facilities
In particular, they suit live line work and energised panel maintenance where crews cannot de-energise the circuit.
4. Solid and Slotted Configurations for Any Installation
Not every installation allows a full flat blanket to be placed cleanly over the live surface. Slotted blankets have a cut-out that allows a conductor or cable to pass through, They can also be wrapped around odd shapes, making them practical where coverage is needed around conductors that cannot be moved.
Maintenance Tips for Electrical Insulation Blankets
To ensure long-term performance, follow these maintenance practices:
- Inspect before use for cuts, punctures, discolouration, or contamination. If in doubt, the blanket comes off the job.
- Clean regularly using mild soap and clean water, so dirt, oils, and contaminants come off without damaging the rubber.
- Store properly — roll, lay flat or hang the blanket in a cool, dry location away from UV, heat, and chemicals. Also, avoid sharp creases.
- Schedule dielectric testing at least every 12 months. ASTM D1048 is an American standard and recommends 12 months as the maximum interval for electrical testing. State & site-based testing requirements are quite often 6 monthly in Australia, thus best practice is testing every 6 months.
Any blanket that fails a dielectric test must be removed from service immediately.
Understanding the Types of Electrical Insulation Blankets
Novax blankets available through Volt Safety include:
- Solid blanket (Type II, Class 4, 36kV): continuous rubber coverage, which suits general live line barrier applications
- 2.25″ (inch) slotted blanket (Type II, Class 4, 36kV): slotted for use around conductors passing through the blanket
- 4.5″ (inch) slotted blanket (Type II, Class 4, 36kV): angled slot for specific installation configurations
Novax manufactures all three to ASTM D1048 Type II, using EPDM rubber for outdoor durability. For full technical specifications, refer to the ASTM D1048 standard.
For extra hold, a purpose-built Novax blanket clamp keeps blankets in position during work.
Conclusion: Invest in Electrical Safety with NOVAX
Electrical insulation blankets are an essential part of live line safety. Because they cut the risk of accidental contact and support compliance with Australian safe work requirements, they deliver real protection when you select the right product and maintain it properly.
Volt Safety stocks the full Novax range locally for fast dispatch.
Solid insulation blanket — Class 4
2.25″ (inch) slotted blanket — Class 4, 36kV
4.5″ (inch) degree slotted blanket — Class 4, 36kV