Which hotline tool can be described as a slender insulated pole provided with a hook clamp on one end and a swivel on the other end and is primarily used in holding live conductors?

• A. An insulated link stick
• B. A universal stick
• C. An auxiliary arm or hot arm
• D. A wire tong

Answer: (D)

A tool like this is designed for holding live conductors from a safe distance, using a simple, controlled grip. An auxiliary arm, also called a hot arm, is a slender insulated extension that attaches to the main hot stick. One end carries a hook clamp to seize the conductor, while the other end has a swivel so the arm can pivot and align the hook without twisting the stick. This arrangement lets you support or reposition a live conductor safely while keeping your body away from energized parts. It’s built specifically for holding conductors, rather than gripping them with jaws—that’s the function of a wire tong. The other tools described have different primary tasks: operating links or switches, or serving as a general-purpose attachment with multiple uses.