Health & Safety Bulletin – Cuts And Lacerations – Aug 19

CUTS AND LACERATIONS

Are common workplace injuries. These injuries can range from minor abrasions that require first aid to serious or life-threatening puncture wounds, deep lacerations or any serious injuries.

A cut or laceration can occur a few ways on the job. An employee may use the wrong tool for the job, or the tool is in a poor condition and not properly maintained. Or the employee maybe working on an equipment that has missing or improperly adjusted guards. Poor lighting, debris and poor housekeeping can play a part. The lack of training, working on short cuts, and failure to wear personal protective equipment and not following procedures contributes to this type of injury.

Prevention Safety Tips

To ensure further prevention of this type of injury it is important to follow the safety tips listed below:

• Perform a Step Back 5×5.
• Use the right tool for the job. Inspect it thoroughly before starting work.
• Make sure that the tool is always secure while cutting and never hold the item being cut in your hand.
• Keep the non-cutting hand clear of the path of the cut.
• Ensure blades are sharp.
• Wear the necessary PPE including eyewear, gloves and protective clothing.
• Never use a cutting blade as a screwdriver, pry bar or chisel.
• Don’t leave exposed blades unattended.
• Keep tools with blades in a closed position when not in use.
• Use a separate drawer for sharp tools.