I've always just slid one off and installed it. I have more trouble deciding which way that funny bent washer is supposed to go.
Offhand, I can't think of one single activity that is absolutely risk free. Reasonable caution is useful. Getting enough sleep/rest is helpful for minimizing accidents. Avoiding doing risking things when under the influence of some drugs - prescribed and otherwise.
I think Fons and Porter have some mesh gloves that they used when they did rotary cutting. Meat cutters also have wire mesh gloves. Don't know how easy they are to work in.
Last edited by bearisgray; 11-30-2011 at 02:15 PM.