Starting an electrical apprenticeship can get expensive pretty quickly. Between tools, boots, and gas, costs add up really fast.
After spending so much of my time looking at products as a small person, this is what I’ve come up with. For this list I’ve kept accessibility and price in mind, focusing on tools apprentices can easily find at general hardware stores rather than specialist wholesalers. You can pick these up at your local Bunnings or Mitre 10.
This article focuses on tool belts.
1. Basics of tool belts and carry systems.
Your tool belt setup will evolve over time. What works for you as a first-year apprentice may not be what you prefer five years into the trade. Many electricians experiment with different systems before settling on one that suits their work style best. It is very likely that you will be specialising in a different type of work when you’re qualified.
You will eventually adapt to having one of these three options:
Tool Belt (Optional with Suspenders)
Many electricians stick with a tool belt, especially if they’re working on construction sites where mobility matters. Having your tools on you means that you can move quickly, and everything is within reach. This is quite often with domestic electricians.
Some electricians do add suspenders to their belt. Suspenders help distribute the weight across your shoulders rather than your hips, which can make a big difference on long days or when carrying heavier tools. This can elevate health problems like sciatica.
Tool Tote
A tool tote is common among electricians doing service work or maintenance. Instead of wearing your tools all day, you carry a small open bag that holds your essential hand tools.
This setup can be easier on your body because you’re not constantly wearing the weight of your tools. It also allows you to carry a slightly wider range of tools without overloading a belt. Only downside is that it does not give you the same mobility as a tool belt does, which can be annoying if you’re running around everywhere.
Carry-On Tool Backpack
Tool backpacks have become more popular in recent years. They allow electricians to carry a larger number of tools while keeping their hands free when moving around site, climbing ladders, or accessing roof spaces. In my experience, I’ve seen this to be popular amongst Industrial Electricians.
Backpacks are especially useful for electricians who move between different areas frequently (especially up and down stairs) or travel between jobs. However, carrying tools on your back can be extremely heavy, especially in cases where the job site is quite big.
Moral of the story: In your first year, start with something basic as you don’t know what sort of work you will specialise in later. A tool belt is a good start.
2. Toolbelt Options
For first years, I recommend looking at either of the following brands. You can get either at a local Bunnings or Mitre 10.
Option 1: ToughBuilt tool belts
These are a popular option for apprentices because they’re modular and widely available in a range of styles. In other words, their ClipTech system allows tool pouches to clip on and off the belt, so you can change your setup depending on the job.
This can be helpful early in your apprenticeship when:
- You’re still figuring out what tools you need to carry most often: Instead of committing to a fixed setup, you can start with a basic belt and add pouches later as your kit grows.
- ToughBuilt belts are also generally more affordable than many trade-specific leather belts, which makes them a good starting point for apprentices who are building their first tool kit.
My entire team jams these, even as experienced Tradesmen. The belt is too big for me personally, but I do carry their tool tote which helps with my sciatica.
Option 2: Taurus
These guys sells as a more traditional style of electrician tool belt; their range is typically made from heavy-duty leather. These belts are designed specifically for electrical work and are known for being durable enough to last for many years on site. These are a very common choice for apprentices.
While they usually cost more upfront than modular fabric systems, many electricians see them as a “buy once” option that will last most of their career. For apprentices who prefer a classic setup and don’t mind the extra weight, a Taurus belt is a very solid choice. It carries the main tools that you need, and is pretty versatile for any job as an apprentice.
Taurus was my first tool belt straight out of pre-trade school. It was one of the few belts that actually fit me, and versatile enough to carry all the tools that I need. I kept it for 2 1/2 years before upgrading to my current belt.
3. How to choose the right one?
Here’s some items that you may need to consider when choosing a belt or a tote system:
Type of work: Will you be on your feet all the time? Climbing ladders and needing a range of tools? Or will you be in one place for most of the time?
Comfort and health: Do you find wearing a belt physically uncomfortable? Would it be good to clip your tools on and off your belt? Do you need to consider minimising the weight of your tools?
How many tools you will actually carry: What do you think will be essential in your job? Do you just need side cutters most of the time, or will you be on a ladder with a million different screw drivers?
Personal preference: Do you prefer to have less on you and be more agile? Or would you prefer to have everything on you just incase.
You’re at the end…
Choosing your first tool belt is a big decision that can be very costly. Irregardless of your decision, you’ll find yourself growing out of it as tie advance in the next couple of years. Don’t be afraid to go in store and try them out.
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