UL warns consumers to use caution when using paper shredders
NORTHBROOK, Ill., USA , Nov. 5, 2004
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is again warning consumers to use caution when using paper shredders, especially if young children are present.
UL has recently received reports of young children receiving finger injuries while operating paper shredders. These products are not intended to be used by children.
"Even though more people are using paper shredders as part of their home offices for telecommuting and protection against identity theft, parents still need to remember that safety should be their first concern," said John Drengenberg, UL's manager of Consumer Affairs. "If children are left alone around a paper shredder, they may think it is a toy, rather than a piece of office equipment."
Drengenberg recommends the following precautions when using paper shredders:
- Do not place hands or fingers in the shredder, as serious injury could result.
- Do not allow children to operate paper shredders, with or without adult supervision.
- Unplug the paper shredder power cord when not in use.
- Place the paper shredder in an area less accessible to children.
- Do not operate a paper shredder while wearing loose fitting clothing that may enter the shredder opening.
- If wearing a tie or long necklace, use caution to keep these items away from the shredder opening.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has evaluated products, materials and systems in the interest of public safety for 108 years. More than 17 billion UL Marks appear on products each year, and more than 18,000 types of products are tested at UL's five U.S. laboratories. Worldwide, the UL family of companies and its network of service providers include more than 47 laboratory, testing and certification facilities.
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