Pliers (Download)
Pliers Photo Courtesy of Dr. Hinze 1 What are Pliers? Pliers are a type of hand tool used to grasp objects firmly for cutting, bending, and compression Reference: http://www.stanleytools.com/default.asp?TYPE=STATIC&PAGE=HOME.HTM 2 Parts of Pliers Note: The above image was released into the public domain by its author. “Fulcrum” is positioned closer to one end to create a jaw-like motion “ Levers ” “Handles ” Needle Nose Pliers 3 History Pliers were used consistently over the last several millennia for metal working and other construction related purposes No single person or event in history has been credited with the origin of pliers The first bronze pliers were most likely used around 3000 BC Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pliers 4 Types of Pliers Slip Joint Vice Grips Needle Nose Channel Type Linesman Diagonal Cutting 5 Uses of Pliers Gripping: Lineman’s, Flat-Nose, Round Nose, Needle Nose, Locking, Tongue & Groove, Parallel Special Purpose Pliers: Wire-Stripping, Fencing, Circlip , Nail-Pulling, Breaker- Grozier Adjustable Pliers: Slip Joint, Channel, Groove Joint Cutting Pliers: Lineman’s, Diagonal, Pinching, Needle-Nose Crimping: Slip Joint, Channel 6 Uses in Construction Pliers are used in several aspects of construction They are most commonly seen in areas of electrical construction where they cause the greatest concern for safety Reference: http://ckelectric.info/ 7 Concerns – Using pliers with any electrical materials: Possibility of electrical contact with skin -Pinching Hazards -Slipping off items being grasped and striking other objects -Improper handling 8 Statistics Fatalities: 7 Construction Fatalities from 1990 to 2009, which indirectly involved the improper use of pliers, were investigated by OSHA All 7 incidences involved death from electrocution due to contact between pliers and electrically charged wires Source: Extracted from OSHA Accident Investigation Data 1990-2009 9 OSHA Regulations There are no OSHA regulations that specifically mention the use of pliers 10 Always wear applicable gloves Always wear proper eye protection Select the appropriate pliers for the task Inspect the pliers for proper functioning and ensure that the pinchers are in good condition Safe Work Practices 11 Safe Work Practices Always test to make sure that any materials that will be in direct contact or indirect contact with pliers are not electrically charged Secure the item being grasped Do not grasp items with pliers and vigorously pull toward the body or face (injury can result if the pliers slip off) 12 Think Safety Work Safely 13