Traditional live line systems and tools are constructed using fiberglass-reinforced plastics coated with epoxy. However, these devices can ‘wet out’ and are for fair weather conditions only. Such tools also cannot normally be left on energized equipment for long periods or used during rain or other humid conditions. This presentation offers a new approach to design of live line tools based on materials typically used in polymer insulators and also includes application of robotic devices. It will explain how designing a new generation of tools allows greater flexibility in how long they can remain installed or be left in service should the weather change.