A flathead screwdriver - a simple tool for a difficult job

July 11, 2022

A pliers is a tool that comes in many shapes and sizes for many uses. Some people use it to hold something round, like a pipe or a piece of wire, others are used to bend wire, and still others are designed for a variety of tasks, including cutting wire.

What are the safety tips we should know when using a flathead screwdriver and wire cutter?

Wear protective glasses or goggles, or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) whenever there are excessive particles, pieces of wire, etc.
Cut at a right angle. Never swing the cutting tool from side to side or across the front and back edges of the wire.
Choose pliers or wire cutters that have a handle length of 6 cm - 9 cm (2 1/2 - 3 1/2 inches) to prevent your hands or fingers from getting caught when closing the tools.
Use an adjustable flathead that allows you to grip the workpiece tightly and maintain a comfortable grip (i.e., the hand grip is not too wide).
Use tools only if they are in good condition.
Make sure the cutting edges are sharp. Blunt and worn cutting edges require many times more force to cut.
Make sure the serrated jaws are clean and sharp. Greasy or worn jaws can pose a safety hazard. Such tools also require increased force to grip the workpiece, which in turn increases the risk of muscle fatigue and repetitive strain injuries.
Oil your pliers and wire cutters regularly. A drop of oil on the handle makes the tools easier to use.
If the tools suddenly slip, you may lose your balance or hit your hand on the tool or something else strong, which could cause injury.

A flathead screwdriver - a simple tool for a difficult job

What should I avoid?

Do not cut reinforced wire unless the pliers or wire cutters are specifically made for this purpose.
Do not expose the flathead screwdriver or wire cutter to excessive heat.
Do not bend stiff wire with a light flat-nose pliers. Its nose can be damaged when bending large wires. Use a stronger tool.
Do not use a flathead screwdriver as a hammer.
Do not use soft grips for tasks that require tools with electrically insulated handles. Soft grips are primarily for comfort and do not protect against electric shock.

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