Safety tip: Always use a face shield when drilling metal (learned the hard way)

So I was drilling some 1/4" steel plate with a step bit yesterday and caught a shaving right in the cheek. Luckily I had safety glasses on, but it still stung like hell and I got a nice little cut. Made me realize I should probably be wearing a face shield for metal work. Anyone else have close calls? What PPE do you guys use when drilling different materials?

Oh man, been there. I was drilling some oak with a forstner bit and a chunk flew off and hit my glasses. Since then I always wear a full face shield when drilling anything overhead or metal. For wood, safety glasses are usually fine, but for metal I go full shield. Also, make sure you're not wearing loose sleeves or gloves that can get caught. I learned that the hard way too.

Face shield is a must for me when using a hole saw on metal pipes. Those chips are nasty. I also keep a magnet handy to pick up the shavings. For PPE, I use a 3M face shield over safety glasses. Can't be too careful. And yeah, no gloves with a drill press – that's a recipe for disaster.

Thanks for the tips, guys. I'll definitely pick up a face shield. Pete, do you have a specific brand you recommend? I don't want to break the bank but also don't want something flimsy.

I use a Uvex Bionic face shield. It's comfortable and not too expensive. Fits over glasses too. Worth every penny.