// Hand Tools

Pliers and Wire Cutters

What are common types of pliers and wire cutters? Pliers are made in various shapes and sizes and for many uses.

eye protection

What are common types of pliers and wire cutters?

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. Proper use of side cutting (lineman's) pliers: Proper use of long nose pliers: Proper use of utility pliers: Proper use of diagonal cutting pliers: Proper use of flat nose pliers: Proper use of slip joint pliers: Proper use of end cutting pliers

context Many applications, including electrical, communications and construction work
context Use to grip, splice or cut wires and strip insulation.
context Use to grip small objects, reach awkward places, hold wires, bend loops, and attach wires
context Work involving smaller gauge wire.
context Use to grip round square, flat and hexagonal objects.
context Can apply limited torque (twisting force) without damaging the work.
context For work involving cutting and skinning wires, cutting and removing pins, nails and other fasteners.
context Common pliers are used in many applications and assembly work.
context Use to grip, turn and bend wires.
context Used to adjust nuts or bolts.
context Use for cutting wires, nails, and rivets close to work.

What are some safety tips to know when using pliers and wire cutters?

ppe Wear safety glasses, goggles or a face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) whenever there is a potential hazard from flying particles, pieces of wire, etc.
requirement Cut at right angles. Never rock the cutting tool from side to side or bend the wire back and forth against the cutting edges.
requirement 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.
requirement Use adjustable pliers that allow you to grip the workpiece firmly while maintaining a comfortable handgrip (i.e., hand grasp is not too wide).
requirement Use tools only if they are in good condition.
requirement Make sure that the cutting edges are sharp. Dull and worn-down cutting edges require much more force than needed for cutting.
administrative 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. Replace tools when the teeth or cutters are worn.
requirement Use the correct size pliers. Keep the plier's jaws as parallel as possible for a better grip.
requirement Oil pliers and wire cutters regularly. A drop of oil on the hinge will make the tools easier to use.
requirement Pull on the pliers; do not push away from you when applying pressure. If the tools slip unexpectedly, you may lose your balance or hit your hand against equipment or something else hard that could result in an injury.

What should I avoid doing?

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

requirement Do not cut hardened wire unless the pliers or wire cutters are specifically manufactured for this purpose.
requirement Do not expose pliers or wire cutters to excessive heat.
requirement Do not bend stiff wires with light pliers. Needle nose pliers can be damaged by using the tips to bend large wires. Use a sturdier tool.
requirement Do not use pliers as a hammer.
requirement Do not hammer on pliers or wire cutters to cut wires or bolts.
requirement 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.
requirement Do not use cushion grip handles for jobs requiring tools with electrically insulated handles. Cushion grips are primarily for comfort and do not protect against electric shock.
requirement Do not use pliers on nuts and bolts because they can round the corners of the nut or bolt; use a wrench.