Cuts and lacerations toolbox talk

What it is

Cuts from knives, blades, saws, sheet edges and other sharp tools and materials.

Controls to check, most effective first

1. Buy materials pre-cut to size where possible, and use knives with retractable or self-retracting blades.
2. Keep guards fitted on saws and cutting tools, and clamp work pieces rather than holding them by hand.
3. Cut away from the body, replace blunt blades promptly, and store knives and blades safely when not in use.
4. Deburr or cover sharp sheet edges, and carry sheet material with a lifting aid or a second person.
5. Wear cut-resistant gloves and arm guards suited to the task, and keep a first aid kit close by.

Where it comes up on the job

Work steps from SafetyDocs templates that deal with cuts and lacerations:

• Cuts and needle stick injuryInfectionFrom Hoarder Cleaning Plan
• Cabinet & benchtop construction & installationSecure cabinets to studs, work safely from ladders and control dust and cutsFrom Cabinet Installation
• Ceiling installationInstall the ceiling from safe trestles and ladders, controlling electricity, falling objects, cuts and silica dustFrom Suspended Grid System Ceiling Installation
• Cutting & laying underlayFollow the guidelines to prevent cuts and lacerations.From Floating Floor Laying
• Fixing pipework, tanksControl trench collapse, hazardous atmosphere, falls, cuts, sewer biohazards, fumes and laser risks when fixing pipework.From Plumbing Drainage

Questions for the crew

1. Where could cuts and lacerations come up on this job today?
2. Is any of this work on today's job: Cuts and needle stick injury?
3. The most effective control is: “Buy materials pre-cut to size where possible, and use knives with retractable or self-retracting blades”. Can we do that here? If not, why not?
4. Which controls for cuts and lacerations are missing or not working on this site?
5. When would you stop work because of cuts and lacerations, and who would you tell?
6. How do we report a hazard, a near miss or an incident on this job?