Safety First! What's your go-to PPE for measuring tools?

Hey folks, just had a close call in the shop yesterday - was using my tape measure on some rough lumber and got a nasty splinter in my finger. Got me thinking, do you guys wear any PPE when measuring? I usually just throw on safety glasses for cutting, but maybe I'm missing something. What do you all do?

Steve, good topic. I'm obsessive about precision AND safety. For measuring, I always wear thin nitrile gloves - protects from splinters and keeps oils off my calipers and micrometers. Also, safety glasses are a must if you're measuring near any cutting operations. One time I saw a guy get metal shavings in his eye while checking a cut... not pretty.

Omg Steve, hope your finger's okay! I'm just a DIYer but I've learned the hard way too. I keep a pair of those cheap work gloves from the hardware store by my measuring tape now. Also, when I'm using my laser level, I make sure not to look directly at the beam - read that somewhere online. Anyone else do that?

Great discussion! As a brand loyalist, I'll say this: invest in quality. My Stanley FatMax tape has a rubberized grip that helps prevent slips, and I pair it with Klein Tools gloves. They're pricier but last forever. Also, if you're using electronic measures, make sure the batteries are secure - had one leak acid once. Not fun to clean up!

Thanks everyone! Carl - nitrile gloves is a great idea, gonna try that. Sarah - good point about laser levels, I'll be more careful. Felix - you're right about quality, my cheap tape probably contributed to my splinter. Stay safe out there, folks!