Abstract: A busbar 10, for use in electrical distribution, is disclosed. The busbar 10 arranged to have an electrically conductive barrier 22 disposed about at least a first portion 20 of the busbar surface 13 for limiting the formation of an oxide layer on the busbar 10. In a further aspect of the present invention the busbar 10 is arranged to have an electrically insulating barrier 26 disposed about at least a second portion 24 of the busbar 10 surface 13 for limiting undesired electrical connection with the busbar 10. The present invention provides a pre-insulated busbar 10 which can be subsequently shaped or prepared without compromising the insulating barrier 26 or the conductive barrier 22. The present invention provides a busbar 10 having improved safety, speed of fitting, and handling characteristics.