Fiberglass Product Care HLT13431, HLT13433, ITP14754, ITP14726, ITP14767, ITP14771, ITP10989, ITP10474, HLT12961, HLT12962, HLT12963, HLT12964

1. Purpose and Scope

This document must be read and understood prior to cleaning, inspecting, storing, or disposing of Slingco fiberglass products used in powerline utility applications. Failure to follow these instructions may result in reduced product performance, equipment damage, serious injury, or death. This guide applies to all fiberglass products manufactured and sold by Slingco. Product-specific requirements, ratings, and applicable standards vary by part number. Refer to the appropriate product information sheet for more specific product detail information.

2. General Fiberglass Safety Overview

Fiberglass products are designed to provide strength, durability, and electrical insulation when properly maintained and used in accordance with approved work practices. Damage, contamination, environmental exposure, or improper handling can reduce dielectric performance and compromise safety.

WARNING
Failure to properly inspect, clean, or maintain fiberglass products before and after each use may result in loss of insulating performance and serious injury or death. Remove any damaged product from service immediately.

Key principles: Always follow utility and company safety procedures - Inspect products before and after each use - Remove damaged products from service immediately - Maintain clean, dry surfaces to preserve insulating properties.

3. Cleaning and Care

3.1 Cleaning Frequency

• Clean fiberglass products as needed based on environmental exposure
• Increase cleaning frequency in areas with heavy contamination (salt, industrial pollutants, oils)

3.2 Approved Cleaning Methods

• Mild detergent and clean water
• Soft-bristle brush or non-abrasive cloth
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water
• Allow to fully dry before storage or use

3.3 Prohibited Cleaning Methods

• Solvents or petroleum-based cleaners
• Abrasive pads or wire brushes
• High-pressure washing
• Steam cleaning

CAUTION
Improper cleaning methods may damage fiberglass surfaces and reduce product service life. Use only approved cleaning methods outlined in this section. 3.4 Post-Cleaning Inspection After cleaning, visually inspect the product for surface damage, cracks, exposed fibers, discoloration, or any abnormal condition. Do not return the product to service if damage is observed.

4. Storage Guidelines

4.1 Storage Environment

• Store in a clean, dry location when possible
• Minimize prolonged UV exposure
• Avoid standing water or direct ground contact

CAUTION
Improper storage may result in surface degradation or structural damage. 
Protect fiberglass products from prolonged UV exposure, moisture intrusion, and mechanical impact.

4.2 Storage Practices

• Support products evenly to prevent bending or warping
• Avoid stacking in a manner that causes point loading
• Protect from impact, crushing, or sharp objects

5. Inspection and Serviceability

5.1 Inspection Timing

Before and after each use After cleaning After any suspected impact or overload event

5.2 Visual Inspection Criteria

WARNING
Do not use fiberglass products that show signs of damage. Continued use of damaged products may result in loss of insulating performance and serious injury or death.

Remove product from service if any of the following are observed: - Cracks, splits, or fractures - Exposed fiberglass fibers - Severe discoloration or chalking - Deformation or structural damage

5.3 Functional Inspection

Verify proper fit and function for the intended application Ensure accessories or attachments are secure

6. Standards and Compliance

NOTICE
Applicable standards, voltage ratings, and performance criteria vary by product and part number. Refer to the appropriate product information sheet for more specific product detail information.

Slingco fiberglass products are designed and tested to meet applicable industry standards. Where applicable, products are certified to meet referenced standards at the date of manufacture. Performance may be affected by contamination, environmental exposure, misuse, or improper maintenance.

Standards may include, but are not limited to: - ASTM F711 – Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Rod and Tube for Live-Line Tools - ASTM F1825 – Live Working Tools – Portable Equipment - OSHA 1910.269 - OSHA 1926.957

7. Product-Specific Operating Limitations

Certain Slingco fiberglass products, including Fiberglass Extension Arms (FEAs), are subject to additional operating limitations, electrical ratings, and use restrictions beyond the scope of this general care and maintenance guide.

READ and UNDERSTAND the applicable Slingco Operation and Safety Guide for the specific part number prior to use.

Products should be inspected before and after each use. All fiberglass products should be tested yearly or per company policy. Whichever is more frequent.

Product-specific requirements may include: - Temporary use limitations (including maximum duration of use) - Voltage ratings based on configuration (e.g., with or without insulators) - Minimum spacing requirements between energized components - Maximum vertical and side load ratings - Restrictions regarding use for human support or rescue operations - Requirements to consider all exposed metal components energized when in contact with conductors

Failure to follow product-specific operating instructions could result in electrical tracking, arc events, equipment damage, severe personal injury, or death.

8. End-of-Life and Disposal

8.1 Removal from Service

Remove the product from service immediately if inspection criteria are not met, if physical damage is identified, or if performance characteristics are suspected to be degraded.

8.2 Disposal Guidelines

• Fiberglass products are typically classified as non-hazardous industrial waste
• Cut or render unusable prior to disposal to prevent unintended reuse
• Use appropriate PPE when cutting or handling damaged fiberglass
• Follow all local, state, and utility-specific disposal regulations

9. Product Catalog

This section provides a comprehensive list of Slingco fiberglass products, including descriptions. Applicable standards, ratings, and operating limitations are defined in the relevant product-specific information sheet.

9.1 Product Table (Expandable)

10. Revision and Expansion

This document is intended to be a living reference. As Slingco expands its fiberglass product offerings or updates standards compliance, additional part numbers and guidance may be incorporated into future revisions.

11. Contact Information

For questions regarding product use, care, or compliance, contact Slingco Technical Support or your authorized Slingco representative.