All students in this course will be
using exacto knives and/or razor blades in the completion of projects. This is probably
the most dangerous tool in the course and has led to the most injuries. Even when handled
safely, an edge that is as sharp as a razor must be handled with utmost care.
ANY INJURY THAT RESULTS IN A CUT OR INJURY INVOLVING BLOOD, MUST BE REPORTED TO YOUR
INSTRUCTOR AS SOON AS IT HAPPENS. This involves the use of "Universal
Precautions" to protect everyone involved.
"Universal Precautions" is the term used for a specific clean up of blood
or bodily fluids. Many people are carriers of a very dangerous virus called
"Hepatitis B" virus. They can carry it without feeling any ill effects for an
extended period of time. This virus is spread just like the HIV virus that leads to AIDS.
If a student infected with either one of these viruses is cut and bleeds on a desk, it
poses a very serious health hazard. The Hepatitis B virus can live on a desk surface for a
period up to two weeks. Therefore, if ANY student should be cut, they must NOTIFY THE
TEACHER IMMEDIATELY. If ANY student becomes ill and vomits in the bathroom, THEY MUST
NOTIFY THE TEACHER IMMEDIATELY.
"Universal Precautions" will be taken
to isolate the tool and any surface that the student's body fluids may have come in
contact with. These surfaces will be cleaned with a bleach solution to kill any germs or
virus, and to insure a safe environment for all. Your personal cooperation in these
situations is imperative.
Of course the safest situation is to not get cut at all. Follow these simple rules to
help you when you are handling an exacto or razor blade:
• Use a sharp blade
- If a blade is dull, it requires you to use more pressure. If you slip, you can
be seriously hurt.
• Always cut against a metal edge - Plastic or wooden blades are a
hazard to use. The tool will be ruined, and the blade will slide easier if it ends up on
the tool.
• Use cardboard under your work - These blades are so sharp, they
can cut through several layers, and damage material underneath.
• Make several passes when cutting thick materials - A serious
safety hazard is created if you try to cut through a thick material such as mat board.
Hold a cork-backed ruler ( a stainless steel, non-skid ruler) very firmly so it doesn't
move. Then keep making many cuts until the material finally separates. Be patient and you
won't have a problem using this method.
• Keep your eyes and your mind on your work - Don't ever
take your eyes away from a razor edge. Complete what you are doing, then place the knife
down before proceeding. ALSO...NEVER talk to someone who is cutting with a razor...wait
until they are done!
• Always place knives in the tool cabinet with the blade pointing
DOWN!!! - Some of the most serious injuries in this course have come from people
placing knives in the tool cabinet incorrectly. This creates a serious hazard.
IMPORTANT ITEMS TO REMEMBER:
Never use a dull blade!
Never cut against a plastic or wooden edge!
Never cut on a drawing table, drawer unit, monitor top, laser printer, copier, or teacher's desk!
Never try to cut thick materials in one pass!
Never fool around with sharp objects in class!
Never stick the knife blade into the drawing table!
Never take your eyes away from your work!
Please understand that you will be tested on this material before you can work on anything else in this course. You can review the material as many times as you like before taking the test. See your teacher when you are ready to take the test.