Advice on safe knife use
WINNIPEG — Safe Manitoba advises young workers that there is always a right way to do things — and that includes on-the-job use of cutting tools like knives and box cutters.
Almost 1,200 young workers in the province have suffered injuries from using these tools since 2000, notes an information bulletin from Safe Manitoba. In two or three cases every year, the injuries resulted in amputation of a finger or thumb.
To guard against the potential for harm, the bulletin offers the following recommendations: cut away from the body when trimming or deboning; use a cutting board or flat surface; store knifes securely in proper racks; use the right knife for the job and make sure it is sharp; and hold the knife with the stronger hand.
Young workers are further advised that they have legal rights to ensure they remain safe: training, supervision and appropriate safety equipment, as well as the right to refuse work believed to be unsafe, without repercussions.
Go Back to Web-Exclusive News