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Ensuring paper shredder safety is crucial when using these machines, whether at home or in the workplace. Follow these tips and precautions to stay safe and protect your fingers and documents.
Pre-Use Activities
Before using a paper shredder, it’s essential to perform a pre-use inspection. Follow these steps:
- Review and understand the information provided in the paper shredder operator’s manual, paying close attention to safety procedures.
- Inspect the paper shredder for damage or disrepair. Check the electrical cord and plug for defects.
- If the paper shredder fails the inspection, notify your supervisor, and remove it from service by attaching a red tag stating “OUT OF SERVICE.” Complete the red tag with the necessary information.
Operating Precautions
When operating a paper shredder, follow these guidelines to ensure safety:
- Locate the paper shredder and power cord outside of foot traffic areas.
- Keep the paper shredder at least 4 inches from walls or furniture to allow proper airflow through ventilation slots.
- Be alert and focused on the shredding task.
- Keep jewellery, long hair, or loose clothing away from the paper shredder feed opening.
- Never put fingers or objects other than paper (e.g., paper clips or staples) into the shredder feed opening.
- Feed paper smoothly into the shredder. Do not force paper into the machine.
- Shred paper in small quantities to avoid jamming the shredder.
- If the shredder motor overheats, turn it off and let it cool for about 15 minutes before using it again.
- Disconnect the power source before removing and emptying the waste box or cleaning the paper shredder.
- Do not use aerosol cleaners to clean a paper shredder. Use a cloth with soap and water instead.
- Consider the Sound of the Shredder will not cause damage to yourself or others. Read the shredders manual or look at using the shredder in a soundproof environment.
Child Safety
Young children are curious and may try to activate the shredder when an adult is not present, putting them at risk of injury. To ensure child safety, follow these tips:
- Never allow children to operate paper shredders, even under adult supervision.
- Place the paper shredder in an area less accessible to children.
- Unplug the paper shredder power cord when not in use.
Safe Shredding Practices
To maintain safety when using a paper shredder, adhere to these practices:
- Do not place hands or fingers in the shredder opening.
- Do not operate a paper shredder while wearing loose-fitting clothing that may enter the shredder opening.
- Keep hair and items, such as ties or long necklaces, away from the shredder opening.
By following these paper shredder safety tips, you can protect yourself and others from potential injuries. In addition, consider outsourcing your document shredding needs to a professional company like Cross Cut Shredding for secure, efficient, and safe document destruction.
