How To

How to Use Pliers

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(8 Ratings)

Pliers are a handy tool to have around. Use them correctly for your safety and comfort.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Choose the right tool for the job. Using your pliers as a hammer may not only damage the tool but could cause you injury.

  2. Step 2

    Use good quality tools and inspect them for defects before using them. Replace worn or defective tools.

  3. Step 3

    Maintain your tools. Oil your pliers and wire cutters with a drop of oil on the hinge. Be sure that the jaws are clean and the teeth are sharp. Worn or greasy jaws are more likely to slip.

  4. Step 4

    Never stick your fingers between the grips and always keep your wrist straight when using pliers.

  5. Step 5

    Protect your tools from extreme heat, which can expand the metal and cause dangerous structural problems.

Tips & Warnings
  • Don't stick a piece of pipe on the handle of your pliers to improve leverage. Use larger pliers instead.
  • The cushioned grips on hand tools are not designed to protect you from an electrical shock. Take appropriate precautions when working with live electrical parts.

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eHow Article: How to Use Pliers

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