Knives and Cuts
Potential Hazard
Workers frequently use knives in the serving area. Servers may be expected to use knives to cut bread. Sometimes, broken glass also creates a hazard in the serving area.
Train employees on the safe handling, use, and storage of knives.
Possible Solutions
Here are some possible solutions to help prevent cuts in the serving area:
- Do not use a glass to scoop ice. Instead, use a metal or plastic ice scoop for placing ice in glasses.
- Do not pick up broken glass with your hands; use a broom and a dustpan.
- Use cutting boards for safe cutting and chopping.
- Focus your attention on the cutting task while using a knife or other sharp utensil. Distractions increase your risk of getting cut.
- Learn to use a knife safely:
- Cut in the direction away from your body.
- Keep your fingers and thumbs out of the way of the cutting line.
- Place dirty knives in a designated container for cleaning, rather than storing in sinks. Wear heavy-duty gloves while cleaning sharp utensils.
Safe Work Practices
Consider implementing safe work practices to help prevent cuts, including:
- Dull knives may slip and cause injuries. Therefore, keep them sharpened and in good condition. Tell workers when knives are newly sharpened.
- Train employees on the safe handling, use, and storage of knives.
- Employees should store all knives with the blades all facing in one direction.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-5. Where should you place dirty knives that need to be cleaned?
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