Use Auto- or Self-Retractable Knives
The POST committee and participating oil companies have adopted the use of auto or self retractable knives only. These knives have blades that automatically retract into the handle when not in use.
Many workers use utility knives to cut strapping, puncture shrink wrap and open packaging. But one wrong move and these retractable blades can do serious harm.
Causes of Utility Knife Accidents:
- Many accidents involving utility knives occur for the following reasons:
- Drawing the knife towards you instead of away from your body.
- Working with a dull blade. (Dull blades require more pressure, increasing the potential for injury.)
- Trying to cut more than the knife can handle.
- Improperly storing the knife with the blade extended.
- Failing to wear personal protective equipment.
- Neglecting to inspect the tool before use.
- There have been cases where workers have suffered injuries from exposed blade tips. This is because the blades did not completely retract into the handle.
Safety Precautions for Cutting Activities:
The following are safety precautions to keep in mind when performing any cutting activity:
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes
- Wear metal mesh or Kevlar gloves to protect your hands.
- Using self-retracting blades.
- Keep extremities out of the cutting path.
- Don’t apply too much pressure on the blade.
- Follow manufacturer’s instructions when changing blades.
- Dispose of dull or broken blades in a puncture-resistant container.
- Use scissor-like tools when cutting rope, plastic tubing, or flexible plastic pipe
Safety Knives
Megasafe Knives
The Megasafe is an ambidextrous safety cutter with a fully automatic retractable blade. It features almost an inch of blade extension and a durable metal body to make it the most versatile safety knife on the market.
- Fully automatic retractable blade for safety
- Ergonomically friendly ambidextrous slider mechanism to engage the blade
- Durable body made of aluminum
- Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks
- Just under 1″ of blade extension
- Easy, tool free blade change
Website and video on Megasafe knives: www.martorusa.com/Megasafe-116006
Maxisafe Knives
The Maxisafe is a slider style safety knife featuring fully automatic blade retraction. This lightweight yet durable cutter works great for general cutting tasks.
- Fully automatic retractable blade for safety
- Ergonomically friendly three sided slider mechanism to engage the blade
- Durable body made of polycarbonate plastic
- Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks
- 3/4″ of blade extension
- Easy, tool free blade change
Can be purchased directly from Martor at www.martorusa.com
Also available at many Canadian retailers including Acklands Grainger, VWR, Safety Today, Weber Supply and Vanguard Steel.
Canadian Sources for Safety Knives
National Hardware Sales Ltd.
Toll Free 1-877-877-0873
www.nhsmedia.com/olfa.htm#SAFETY
International Safety Systems
Toll Free 1-877-DIAL-ISS
www.internationalsafety.com
Acklands Grainger Inc.
Uline
Toll Free 1-800-958-5463
www.uline.ca