Pliers are made in various shapes and sizes and for many uses. Some are used for gripping something round like a pipe or rod, some are used for twisting wires, and others are designed to be used for a combination of tasks including cutting wire. There are also tools that are used just for cutting wires (as opposed to wire cable and rope). Use the correct pliers or wire cutters for the job.

DO

• Wear safety glasses or a faceshield where there is a hazard from flying particles, pieces of wire, etc.
• Cut at right angles. Never rock the cutting tool from side to side or bend wire back and forth against the cutting edges.

• Choose pliers or wire cutters that have a grip span of 6 cm - 9 cm (2 1/2 - 3 1/2 in.) to prevent your palm or fingers from being pinched when the tools are closed.
• Use adjustable pliers that allow you to grip the workpiece firmly while maintaining a comfortable handgrip (i.e., hand grasp is not too wide).
• Use tools only if they are in good condition.
• Make sure that the cutting edges are sharp. Dull and worn down cutting edges require many times more force needed for cutting.
• Make sure that the toothed jaws are clean and sharp. Greasy or worn down jaws can result in compromised safety. Such tools also require increased force to hold the workpiece which, in turn, increases the risk of muscular fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.
• Oil pliers and wire cutters regularly. A drop of oil on the hinge will make the tools easier to use.
• Pull on the pliers; do not push away from you when applying pressure. If the tools slips unexpectedly, you may lose your balance or hit your hand against equipment or something else hard that could result in an injury.

• Do not cut hardened wire unless the pliers or wire cutters are specifically manufactured for this purpose.
• Do not expose pliers or wire cutters to excessive heat.
• Do not bend stiff wire with light pliers. Needle nose pliers can be damaged by using the tips to bend large wire. Use a sturdier tool.
• Do not use pliers as a hammer.
• Do not hammer on pliers or wire cutters to cut wires or bolts.
• Do not extend the length of handles to gain greater leverage. Use a larger pair of pliers for gripping or a bolt cutter for cutting.
• Do not use cushion grip handles for jobs requiring tools with electrically insulated handles. Cushion grips are for comfort primarily and do not protect against electric shock.
• Do not use pliers on nuts and bolts; use a wrench.

Refer to OSH Answers General Hand Tool Operation for more tips.