Inspect cartons for signs of damage or leaking. If a damaged carton contains powder, aerosol cans, liquid, flammable or hazardous chemicals, don’t open it. For leaking flammable materials, locate a fire extinguisher. Place any damaged carton in a waste container and move it to a secure area designed to contain spills. Then report the damage according to procedures.

Inspect carton flaps for evidence of staples.  Often staples may be covered with carton sealing tape. Exercise caution when cutting around box-sealing staples to prevent damage to the cutting blade.

Always draw the knife away from your body. Maintain a safe distance from co-workers and customers as you cut. 

Use the tape splitter (SK-9 knife) to split paper and plastic shipping tape. This will prevent damage to interior carton contents, such as plastic bags or bottles of liquid.

Use caution when cutting cardboard from displays. When removing carton flaps and side panels to form shelf-displays, pull the cardboard away from the interior product and aim the cutting blade away from your hand as you cut. 

Change the blade as soon as it’s dull. A dull blade skates across the cardboard and can slide off the desired cutting path, increasing the chances for injury and product damage. 

Do not dispose of used blades in trash bins. Discard used blades in an approved receptacle, such as OLFA blade disposal cases or cans, to prevent injury.