How can employees best protect themselves from sharps injuries?

Handling knives and other sharp tools with care is essential for employees to protect themselves from sharps injuries. This practice involves being mindful of how tools are used and emphasizing safety measures during their operation. Proper handling techniques, such as maintaining a firm grip, cutting away from the body, and keeping fingers clear of cutting paths, significantly reduce the risk of accidental cuts or punctures.

In contrast, using dull knives may seem safer but can actually lead to more injuries, as dull blades require more force to cut, increasing the likelihood of slipping. Wearing thick gloves at all times is not practical; while gloves can protect against minor cuts, they can also hinder dexterity when precise movements are needed, increasing the risk of accidents. Lastly, avoiding the use of sharp tools altogether is impractical and counterproductive in a food preparation environment, as sharp tools are necessary for efficient and effective cooking. Proper training and care when using sharp tools is the best strategy for minimizing the risk of injuries.