Apprentices are often injured from:
- using Stanley knives to open boxes or cut strapping tape, or other materials
- cutting towards yourself, or
- failure to focus on the cutting tasks.
In fact, almost one-third of all injuries sustained by 15-24-year-olds are cuts from working with and using knives.
Knives can be dangerous, and when you use them frequently, you can get too comfortable and forget to work safely.
Following these four simple rules for knife safety can prevent these injuries from occurring.
Keep these safety tips in mind next time you use a knife at work and share them with your workmates.
- SWITCH to Safety Knives
These knives conceal the blade, making them safer to use. They are ideal for opening boxes and cutting strapping tape.
Concealed Safety Cutters.
Corrugated Cardboard Safety Cutter.
2. Let it fall
Don’t try to catch a falling knife. It can be hard to ignore your reflexes, but there’s no safe way to catch a knife.
3. Wear protective equipment [PPE]
Cut resistant gloves are great protection if you’re working with knives. Make sure they fit well and grip well. Aprons, gauntlets and closed in shoes are also a good idea. Ask your supervisor if they are supplied in your workplace.
4. Use the right tool for the job
Before you cut, check that you’re using the right tool. Would scissors or pliers be safer? Different knives are designed for different tasks. Make sure you’re using the right one for the job. Only use knives to cut, not to open tins or tighten screws and the like.