Chapter 9 Safety in the Kitchen 139 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. and phone numbers for emergency services posted. First aid kits need to be properly stocked at all times, 9-3. All employees should know the location of the first aid kit. They should also know what it contains. Never use anything in the first aid kit that you have not been trained to use. In the event of an injury, always alert a supervisor before applying first aid. Preventing accidents requires a team effort. Many accidents are the result of carelessness. Paying close attention to what you and your coworkers are doing is the best prevention. Cuts There are many sharp knives and cutting machines in kitchens. It is not surprising that cuts are one of the most common injuries. Taking the following precautions can help to reduce the frequency and severity of cuts: • Practice correct knife cutting skills. • Always carry a knife by your side and pointed downward. • Announce when you are carrying a knife so that others are aware of the danger. • Never leave a knife or sharp object in a dishwashing sink. • Never gesture with a knife. • Never try to catch a falling knife. It is better to damage a knife than sustain a serious injury. • Use only sharp knives. Dull knives cause injuries. • Use knives only for appropriate tasks— do not use knives for opening cans or as a hammer. In the event of a cut, first contact the supervisor. If the cut is small, apply first aid. The cut should be cleaned, disinfected, bandaged, and a protective finger cot should be worn, 9-4. Deeper cuts may require stitches and prompt medical treatment. Contents of a Basic First Aid Kit • activated charcoal (use only if instructed by Poison Control Center) • adhesive tape • antiseptic ointment • adhesive bandages (assorted sizes) • burn gel or spray • cold pack • disposable gloves • eyewash bottles • gauze pads and roller gauze (assorted sizes) • hand sanitizer • plastic bags • scissors and tweezers • small flashlight and extra batteries • ipecac syrup (use only if instructed by Poison Control Center) • triangular bandage Draz-Koetke/Goodheart-Willcox Publisher 9-3 Every kitchen must have a properly stocked first aid kit. Draz-Koetke/Goodheart-Willcox Publisher 9-4 Finger cots help keep cuts clean and dry.