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Seven Steps to Avoid Restaurant LacerationsBy Michael Rich
In 2009 nearly 13,600 restaurant workers lost at least a day of work because of a work-related laceration.
The number represents 15.5 percent of all injuries to restaurant workers, making it the second leading cause of injury behind slips, trips and falls.
The Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimates these hand injuries cost the foodservice industry about $300 million a year in medical costs, lost time from work and workers' compensation insurance payouts.
By following these seven simple steps your employees can protect themselves from lacerations.
1. Separate Sharps
The most dangerous knife is the knife you cannot see. For that reason it is important to keep knives out of dish tubs or sinks. Create a designated tub for dirty knives in the workplace or have employees who are using the knives personally clean them after use.
2. Proper Techniques
Before you give the keys to the knives to your staff ensure they are trained on proper knife usage. This includes:
3. Cutting Gloves
Made from stainless steel, Kevlar or other materials resistant to sharp objects, cutting gloves are a great addition to any kitchen. While these gloves are extremely effective in preventing cuts it is important to remember they are cut resistant, not cut proof- injuries can still occur. When purchasing these gloves make sure you order multiple sizes to ensure each member of your kitchen staff has a properly fitting glove.
4. Cutting Boards
The utilization of cutting boards prevents objects from slipping while they are being cut. For this reason it is important to make sure all your employees are using cutting boards and that the boards you have are in good working condition.
5. Maintenance
Perhaps the most common cause of restaurant lacerations is dull and improperly maintained knives. Dull blades not only slip but decrease accuracy and performance. You should have blades sharped at least once to twice a week depending upon usage. When sharpening knives also inspect the handles and if loose tighten. If the handle cannot be tightened the blade should be properly disposed.
6. Focus
The operation of a knife is a dangerous job requiring complete concentration. It is important to have a policy in place that instructs employees not to communicate with one another when one is using a knife. While it may sound a bit impractical it will increase efficiency and reduce accidents.
7. Use the correct knife for the job
You wouldn't hammer a nail with a screw driver, so don't cut bread with a non-serrated blade. Ensure your employees have proper training on what knife to use for what job. Here are a few pointers...
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