How To Operate a Paper Shredder Safely and Efficiently

Everyone thinks they know how to use a paper shredder until it jams, overheats, or worse. To ensure you have a safe and productive shredding session, remember these tips for how to operate a paper shredder. These can help you avoid accidents and get your project done, whether you need to shred documents at home or in the office.

Shred in Small Batches

When you’re planning a big shredding project, be sure to tackle it in small batches. The standard paper shredder can only handle a certain number of sheets at a time. And after an extended period of shredding, it may start to overheat. When a shredder overheats, it can pose a fire risk, which is why you should immediately stop shredding, unplug the shredder, and give it time to cool. Take this time to empty the container and reorganize your shredding pile so that you’re ready to start again once the machine cools.

Don’t Try To Force It

If your paper machine overheats, you shouldn’t force it to keep shredding. If you try to use a paper shredder when it is overheated or jammed, it could become a fire risk. Additionally, don’t use a damaged or broken machine. Instead, pause your task and label the shredder with an “Out of Order” sign or banner. This will notify other office workers or family members that the shredder needs time to cool down or an issue needs resolving.

Keep Foreign Objects Away

Many standard paper shredders can only handle paper materials. Some shredders can shred staples, paper clips, and other small, file-related objects, but these are exceptional cases. Always reference your machine’s manual to see if it’s compatible with small items like these. Never place your fingers near the paper port, and keep long items like accessories, sleeves, and hair at a safe distance. If these items catch in the machine, they can lead to injuries or fire risks. There’s a whole list of items you should never put in a paper shredder. For instance, you shouldn’t put metal cards or electronics in it. So always use caution.

When operating any type of automated machine, you should treat it with care and respect—even a device as small as a paper shredder can cause accidents. Utilize these tips on how to operate a paper shredder safely and efficiently when you’re at work, at home, or using your local library’s system.