1. Risk control
The obvious best course of action to reduce the risk of blade inflicted injuries is to consider if blades are strictly necessary for jobs on site.
For example, consider if boxes can be opened with scissors or even by hand instead of a box cutter, it may take a fraction longer to perform the task this way, but it is a much safer option.
If there are processes on site that absolutely require a blade, consider opting for blades featuring extra safety precautions, such as guards, spring back options and using non-exposed versions of blades.
2. Keep them sharp
While it is well known that sharp blades can be dangerous, it is important to note that they can be just as dangerous when they become blunt.
When using a blunt blade, it requires more force to carry out the task than it would if the blade was sharp, and if a mishap were to occur, there would be more force behind the blade, and therefore a higher risk of more significant injury.
In most circumstances, sharp blades carry significant risk, but when it comes to the blade being in use, in most cases, if used correctly, the sharper it is, the safer it is.
3. Stick to their purpose
It could be seen as the easy option to use a blade for multiple different tasks, and you may have used them to do these tasks several times, that does not make the habit any less dangerous.
Common site tasks such as screwing and unscrewing fixings and prying open various cans should only performed with the appropriate tools, to further diminish the risk of injury.
4. Carry them correctly
It is a lesson many of us would’ve been taught for a number of years, when carrying sharp objects such as scissors, they should always be carried sharp end down.
The same rules apply when carrying blades on site, if the blade can be retracted, then it should be in its retracted position when not in use, but in the case of exposed blades, they should be carried pointed down and by your side when not in use.
5. Use protective clothing
It is important to keep yourself adequately protected when working with sharp equipment, whether that be power tools such as saws or just a simple blade.
The main PPE you’ll need when working with blades are safety glasses to protect yourself from the blade possibly shattering or breaking, as well as mesh gloves or gloves that are proven to be cut resistant.
How to dispose of blades correctly
Safe use of blades is just as important when it comes to disposal as when in use, with the proper procedure being to remove any blades that fall in to disrepair and placing them in a box that is durable enough that the blades will not puncture it. Once you have done this, you can dispose of the box as normal.
Blades are often an every day part of the trade, and their correct and safe use is key to an efficient and undisrupted work day. Here at IronmongeryDirect, we stock a range of Multi Tool Blades that are perfect for a number of applications, from singular blades to handy multi packs. To kit out your van or toolbox with any other essentials, you can browse or Screws, Fixings & Adhesives range.
