Key risks

• Cuts and puncture wounds from direct contact with the blade.
• Slips while cutting that can cause injury, especially when applying excessive force or cutting towards the body.
• Ejection or breakage of blade segments on snap-off models.
• Unintentional damage to what is underneath or inside the material (cables, package contents) when opening without checking.
• Injury to others due to dropping the utility knife or by leaving the blade exposed on surfaces or in pockets.
• Failure of the retraction or locking mechanism that keeps the blade extended unintentionally.
• Skin irritation from contact with dirty or rusty blades.

Safe use

• Choose a blade suitable for the material and in good condition; a blunt blade requires more force and increases the risk.
• Extend only the minimum blade length necessary and engage the lock if available.
• Always cut away from your body and keep your other hand out of the blade's path.
• Work on a stable surface and, where appropriate, use a cutting mat to protect the table and control the tool.
• Make several light passes instead of forcing a single deep cut.
• Replace the blade if it is blunt, nicked or bent; handle it by the non-cutting side and keep your fingers away from the cutting edge.
• For snap-off blades, break the segment using the intended system while protecting your eyes; do not snap it off with your fingers.
• Where appropriate, use cut-resistant gloves and eye protection, especially when snapping segments or removing used blades.
• Check for and remove staples, strapping or metal components that could catch the blade before cutting.
• Do not use the utility knife as a lever, chisel, scraper or screwdriver.
• Retract and lock the blade after each use and when moving around; use a sheath if available.
• Dispose of used blades and segments in a rigid sharps container; do not discard them loose.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the utility knife with the blade retracted and locked, out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep it clean and dry; remove any adhesive residue, dust or moisture after use.
• Periodically check the handle, screws and the slide/lock mechanism; stop using it if there is play, cracks, or if the blade does not retract smoothly.
• Lightly lubricate the mechanism if it feels stiff, avoiding excess that may attract dirt.
• Keep spare blades in their original packaging, closed and protected from moisture.
• Dispose of broken blades and segments in a sturdy, closed container to prevent punctures in the rubbish.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, extreme heat or solvents that could degrade the handle or mechanism.

Restrictions of use

• For adult use only; keep away from children and from people unfamiliar with its use.
• Do not use to cut electrical cables, energised materials or near concealed services without first verifying their location.
• Do not use when working at height without securing the tool to prevent it from falling.
• Not for food contact.
• Do not modify the utility knife or fit incompatible or incorrectly sized blades.
• Do not use if the retraction or locking mechanism fails, or if the handle is damaged.
• Do not force cuts in materials that are too hard or too thick for this type of tool; choose a more suitable tool.