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Shop Hazards

Lacerations (cuts)

Injuries due to lacerations and punctures are a frequent shop injury.  These type injuries are often caused by box cutters, pocket knives and the use of other hand tools.  Lacerations and puncture wounds can also be generated by contact with moving equipment and not using appropriate personal protective equipment.

The easiest way to prevent cuts is to wear the proper personal protective equipment.  This includes eye protection, gloves and long sleeves.  Gloves should be selected based on the exposure.  Cut gloves are very effective but have to appropriate for the task.  Using the correct tool for the job is critical.  It is important to keep bladed tools sharp and in good condition.  A dull blade means a worker has to exert more force when cutting, increasing the chance of injury.  A sharp blade is much safety than a dull blade.