Must Butchers wear Scabbards?

Our Health & Safety advisers The Health & Safety Company replied as follows:- I have spoken to our technical people and both Jim and Jonathan agree that although the interpretation of the guidelines as quoted do suggest scabbards being used, it is just a suggestion.

When we undertake audits and compliance accounts we emphaise to the client that due diligence must be taken with the care and use of knives, however we would not insist they wear scabbards for carrying the knives as this is not practical in a butchery environment.

Magnetic holders at the workstation or knife blocks are more practical.

If there was an accident or incident then the HSE would look at the overall risk assessment and take all the results into consideration i.e. ensuring everything reasonably practicable (Health and Safety at Work act etc. 1974) was done including PPE and training and that the risk assessment was suitable and sufficient for the work being undertaken. (Management of health and safety at work regulations 1999)

Hope this answers your question.

Sandra Pugh
Manager
www.nhasco.com
T. 0845 009 1711
E. [email protected]

Office: 5 Grampian Court, Beveridge Sq, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6QF