14 Safety Tips To Follow When Using A Box Cutter

Box cutters are one of the most versatile and commonly used tools in any workspace. They can cut through all kinds of materials – from box cardboard to heavy plastic wrap – quickly, efficiently,, and with little effort. However, it is important to remember that they can also be dangerous if not handled properly.

In this blog post, we will share 14 safety tips on using a box cutter safely so you can get the job done successfully without putting yourself or anyone else at risk of injury! So grab your favorite pair of work gloves and read on!

Safety Tips To Follow When Using A Box Cutter

A box cutter is a sharp and powerful tool that must be handled with care. Here are 10 essential safety tips to follow when using it:

1. Use a Sharp Blade

A sharp blade is essential for using a box cutter safely, as a dull blade can catch on the material being cut and cause it to slip out of place, increasing the risk of an injury. Consequently, if you notice that your box cutter isn’t making clean cuts or that its blade appears dinged up or otherwise not sharp enough for use, it’s smart to replace it.

Thankfully, box cutter blades are inexpensive and easy to swap out, allowing you to keep working without taking too much time away from your task.

2. Wear Safety Glasses & Gloves

When using a box cutter, it’s highly recommended that you wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or material shards. 

Additionally, wearing protective gloves can also help keep your hands safe in the event of an accidental slip or if the blade catches on something unexpectedly.

3. Secure the Item You Are Cutting

Before using a box cutter, it is important to ensure that whatever item you cut is securely held against a flat surface. 

This will help prevent any accidents caused by the material slipping during the cutting process. It will also help ensure you make clean cuts and save you time.

4. Create a Guide Line Before Cutting

Creating a guideline before a box cutter is one of the best ways to ensure accuracy during the cutting process. This can be done by measuring where you need to cut or using masking tape as a guide. Additionally, it’s always smart to practice scrap material before cutting the item you need.

5. Never Throw A Box Cutter

Throwing a box cutter is always a dangerous decision and should never be done, even if you are in a hurry or feeling frustrated with the task at hand. Doing so increases the risk of injury to both yourself and anyone else nearby, as well as causing damage to any objects in the area.

6. Keep the Cutter Away from Your Body

When using a box cutter, it is important to keep the blade away from your body to reduce the risk of an accidental cut or injury. Additionally, make sure that no one else is near enough for them to be at risk.

7. Push Down on Blade When Cutting

When using a box cutter, it is important to push down firmly on the blade while making your cuts to ensure accuracy and prevent any slipping of the material being cut. Pushing down firmly also helps keep the blade secure and reduces the risk of an accidental cut.

8. Don’t Force the Cutter

When using a box cutter, it is important not to force the blade through whatever material you are cutting, as this could cause the blade to break off or slip out of place, creating an injury hazard. If you find that your box cutter cannot get through the material easily, it’s likely time to swap out for a new one or use other tools such as scissors or saws.

9. Dispose of Blades Properly

Once you have finished using a box cutter and its blades, it is important to dispose of them properly to reduce the risk of any cuts caused by sharp edges. Plastic containers with lids are great for storing used blades and can be disposed of safely afterward.

10. Keep Out of Reach of Children

It is important to keep any box cutters and blades out of reach of children as they can be incredibly dangerous if not used properly. Be sure to store them safely away from curious hands and remind children not to touch them.

11. Retract Blade When Not in Use

It is important to remember to retract the blade of your box cutter when it is not in use. This will help ensure that you and those around you stay safe while handling it and protect the blade from accidental damage or wear.

12. Don’t Put Your Thumb Over the Box Cutter

It is important to remember not to put your thumb over the box cutter when cutting, as this can lead to a serious cut or even amputation of the thumb. Instead, ensure that you have a firm grip on the handle and always keep your fingers away from the blade.

13. Change Old, Dull, And Rusty Blades

It is important to remember that dull and rusty blades can be hazardous and should be replaced regularly. This will help ensure accuracy and reduce the risk of accidental cuts caused by slipping or an old blade breaking off. Additionally, be sure to check for signs of wear and tear before using a box cutter as well.

14. Keep a First-Aid Kit Handy

Finally, keeping a first-aid kit nearby is always a good idea in case of any accidental cuts or injuries. This will help ensure that you have all the necessary supplies to treat any minor cuts or scrapes and can also provide peace of mind when using a box cutter.  

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that you and those around you stay safe when using a box cutter. Remember to be cautious, aware of your surroundings, and keep blades sharp and clean for optimal performance. With the right precautions in place, a box cutter can be an incredibly useful tool to have on hand!