Take Caution: Increase Live Cable Safety with the Right Reel

Posted on 04/04/2022

From industrial facilities and construction sites to utility and rescue trucks, live electric cable and cord is used to power a wide range of critical applications. Handling and dealing with live cable poses significant potential safety risks for workers. However, choosing the right cable reel for your specific operation greatly reduces these dangers, and protects those who service millions every day. Keep reading below to learn more about Hannay’s electric cable reels and how our products can increase safety conditions.

Jobsite Safety Made Simple

Organization is the key to safely handling electric cable. Without the proper reel, expensive live cables can become kinked, in turn exposing wires and causing short circuits. Even when these cables are in good working order, they can still pose a tripping hazard, as they often have to be dragged from one location to another. Design considerations such as a manual, power, or spring rewinds provide fast deployment and easy retraction, no matter the conditions. Hannay cable reels also feature flexible installation, allowing for stationary mounts on work trucks, work trailers, and inside shops. Portable options that can be carried by hand or rolled on wheels are also available.

Hannay Cable Reel Components

Hannay cable reels come standard with a 3- or 4-conductor, 45-amp, 600-volt collector assembly. However, custom collectors with more conductors or larger amperage are available. The collector allows the electrical current to remain intact as the reel’s spool spins to prevent internal wiring from tangling while the collector assembly creates a safe passage from the power source through the reel to the desired cable. The cable being used is connected to the leads from the collector assembly inside the reel. The collector assembly is wired to the incoming power source inside the supplied junction box. Several of Hannay’s cable reels come already equipped with a collector assembly and junction box, whereas other options include a plug for incoming power.

Live Cable Reel Safety Checklist

No matter the industry or application, it’s crucial to always follow these tips when selecting and using a cable reel:

• Verify that your cable reel is properly rated for the intended application.
• Never exceed the voltage and amperage specified for a particular reel or cable.
• Follow all local, state, and/or national electrical codes.
• Always disconnect the power source prior to installation, maintenance, or before removing junction box covers or collector ring housings.
• Always ensure that liquid-tight connections are being used at all times.

If you are unsure about the electrical requirements of an intended use or application, we urge you to consult a qualified electrician.  

Hannay Reels carries the industry’s top electric cable reels for industrial, construction, utility, transportation, and fire and rescue applications. To find the right reel for your operation, contact us at 877-467-3357, email reels@hannay.com or visit the links below.

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Categories: Applications

Topics: Applications