An electrical switching apparatus includes a number of poles each having an elongated conductor with a first end and an opposite second end with a first terminal member. A circuit interrupter is electrically connected in series with the elongated conductor at the first end. A second terminal member electrically engages the first terminal member. A number of insulative skirts are disposed on the elongated conductor between opposite ends thereof. An insulative tube receives the insulative skirts and includes a first open end and an opposite second end carrying the second terminal member. A carrier carries the poles between (a) a first position in which the first terminal member electrically engages the second terminal member and the insulative tube receives the insulative skirts, and (b) a second position in which the first terminal member is electrically disconnected from the second terminal member and the skirts are withdrawn from the insulative tube.