Pliers safety tip: wear gloves! (almost lost a finger today)

Hey everyone, just wanted to share a safety tip that I learned the hard way today. I was using a pair of lineman's pliers to cut some 12-gauge wire, and I wasn't wearing gloves. The wire slipped and the pliers pinched my finger something awful. No blood, but it scared the crap out of me. From now on, I'm always wearing my leather gloves when using pliers. Anyone else have a close call? What PPE do you use with pliers?

Good reminder, Bob. I've been a roofer for 15 years and I've seen too many hand injuries. Always wear gloves! For pliers, I recommend a good pair of impact-resistant gloves with a snug fit. Also, make sure your pliers have a good grip – worn handles are an accident waiting to happen. And if you're cutting wire, use the right size pliers for the job. Don't force it. Stay safe out there!

Glad you're okay, Bob. I keep a pair of Mechanix gloves in my tool bag at all times. They're thin enough to feel what you're doing but protect from cuts and pinches. Also, a tip: if you're doing a lot of cutting, get a pair of flush cutters or diagonal cutters instead of lineman's pliers. Less chance of slippage. And always cut away from your body!

I've had my share of plier mishaps. One time I was twisting wire with some old pliers and the jaw slipped and I bashed my knuckles into a stud. Bruised for a week. Now I always wear gloves and I also use pliers with a return spring to reduce hand fatigue. Doesn't seem like much but it helps you keep a better grip. Also, keep your pliers clean and lightly oiled – rusty pliers are more likely to slip.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I just ordered some Mechanix gloves and a new pair of Knipex pliers. Better safe than sorry!