How to Prevent Cuts in the Workplace

Cuts are among the most common injuries that workers suffer on the job. In fact, close to 30% of work-related injuries involve cuts or lacerations.

Most cuts sustained by employees are the result of the following things:

• Not paying attention to their work environment.
• Poor training.
• Lack of proper safety equipment.
• Failure to follow established safety procedures.
• Rushing to finish work duties.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers and employees should follow these guidelines to reduce and prevent cuts in the workplace:

• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, pads, long sleeves, and protective eyewear.
• Make sure to use the correct tool or piece of equipment for the job that is being performed.
• Always maintain a clear work space.
• Dull blades increase the risk of a cut because they require more force to cut through materials. This is why you should use sharp blades if you have to cut something at work.
• Replace blades when they become too dull.
• Workers should use self-retracting cutting blades.
• Do not leave an exposed blade unattended.
• Never put an open blade in your pocket.
• Wearing cut-resistant gloves can substantially reduce your risk of suffering injury.
• Store sharp objects in a drawer that is separated from other tools.
• Use round-tip blades instead of pointed-tip blades whenever you can.
• Always make sure your non-cutting hand is out of the way before you begin cutting.
• Stand in a well-balanced position before using a blade.
• Make sure the item you are cutting is secure.
• Inspect the blades for defects before you use them.

Speak to a Workers' Compensation Attorney

If you have been cut at work, you might be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries. Our experienced legal team can review the details of your case and explain all of your rights under the law. We are dedicated to recovering maximum compensation for our clients, and we are prepared to put our skills to work for you.