I still have my first pair of linesman's pliers- they're Kleins- and they never had plastic on the handles! Besides, even the new ones say "not for protection against electrical shock." Maybe I should replace these junk tools- what is a quality brand you reccomend?
Even screwdrivers say "wear safety glasses." Are we being a little silly here?
Incidentally, for those who want to find affordable Nomex clothing (for flash protection), there is a variety of mil-spec shirts, jackets, etc., out there that were originally designed for wear by flight crews, tank crews, etc. Check places that sell to the military or law-enforcement communities.