PSA: Don't Forget Your Safety Glasses When Measuring!

Hey all, just a friendly reminder after a close call I had in the shop yesterday. Was measuring some plywood with a tape measure, and the dang thing snapped back and whipped me right in the eye. I was lucky I had my safety glasses on, or I'd probably be typing this with one eye. Seriously, even for simple measuring, wear those PPEs. Anyone else have a 'measuring mishap' story?

Preach, Steve! I'm a safety inspector for a construction firm, and I've seen too many guys get eye injuries from tape measures snapping, or worse, from flying debris when a cut goes wrong. Always wear your ANSI Z87.1 rated glasses. And don't forget, retract that tape slowly and controlled. It's not a race. Good on you for sharing!

Ouch, Steve! Glad you're okay. I've had a tape snap back on me too, but it got my fingers instead. Now I always make sure the lock is engaged when I'm extending it. But yeah, safety glasses are a must. I also wear a dust mask when I'm measuring old wood, cause that dust can't be good for you either.

lol, you guys are a bunch of Nancy's. I've been measuring stuff for 20 years without glasses and I'm fine. Just be careful. But whatever, do what you want. I'll keep my sawdust in my eyes like a man.

Hey Hank12, I get it, but being 'manly' isn't worth losing your sight. I've had to file paperwork on guys who thought the same thing. One guy lost an eye to a piece of metal that chipped off a chisel. Trust me, you don't want that. Invest in a good pair of safety glasses, you'll thank me later.