Safe use of knives in the kitchen

What are the risks?

• Accidents involving knives are common in the catering industry. They usually involve cuts to the non-knife hand and fingers but can lead to injuries on the upper arm and torso.
• Cleavers are commonly used for chopping and the same controls for knives should be adopted.

Ways to minimise the risk

Do

• Train employees in the safe use of knives and safe working practices when sharpening knives
• Use a knife suitable for the task and the food you are cutting.
• Keep knives sharp
• Cut on a stable surface.
• Handle knives carefully when washing up
• Carry a knife with the blade pointing downwards.
• Store knives securely after use e.g. in a scabbard or container
• Use protective equipment as required. For deboning, it is recommended that a suitable protective glove is worn on the non-knife hand and a chainmail or similar apron is worn.

Do not

• Do not leave knives loose on worktop surfaces where they can be accidentally pushed off
• Do not try to catch a falling knife.
• Do not use a knife as a can opener.
• Do not carry knives while carrying other objects.
• Do not engage in horseplay with a knife.
• Do not carry a knife in your pocket

Case Study: What can go wrong?

Whilst trying to open a 25 kilo bag of potatoes the commis chef sliced the corner of the bag using a 12 inch fish filleting knife. With the knife still in his right hand pointing upwards he then attempted to move the bag. The cut section of bag gave way causing the knife to be thrust upwards into his face causing a severe laceration.

This is an actual reported accident that shows what can happen when trying to carry a bag whilst still holding a knife. A change in working practices would have avoided this accident for example using a safety knife.

Some industry examples of good practice in safe use of knives

Part of the work of the Hospitality Industry Liaison Forum is in sharing good practice. Here are some industry examples of good practice in safe use of knives (reproduced with permission) that members are happy to share.

• Sharpening knives with a steel - Safe system of work
• Safe use of knives presentation - including sharpening