How to Carry a Kitchen Knife Safely: Essential Safety Tips
A kitchen knife can be one of the most useful tools in your kitchen, but it needs to be handled carefully—even when you're not cutting anything.
Whether you're moving a knife from the bench to the sink, taking it to another work area or carrying it to a different kitchen, a few simple habits can make knife handling much safer.
1. Carry the Knife With the Point Facing Down
When carrying a kitchen knife, hold it securely by the handle with the blade pointing down and alongside your body.
Keep your arm relaxed and avoid swinging the knife while walking.
Never carry a knife with the blade pointing upwards or waving it around, especially when other people are nearby.
2. Keep the Cutting Edge Away From You
Make sure the cutting edge is positioned away from your body while carrying the knife.
Hold the handle firmly and maintain control of the blade rather than gripping the blade itself.
3. Don't Run With a Knife
Even if you're only moving a short distance, walk slowly and stay aware of your surroundings.
If someone unexpectedly walks into your path, stop and allow them to pass rather than trying to move around them with the knife.
4. Never Carry a Knife Hidden Under Food or Other Items
Don't place a knife underneath a tea towel, chopping board, ingredients or other objects while carrying it.
Other people may not realise that a sharp blade is underneath the item, increasing the risk of an accidental cut.
5. Use a Sheath or Blade Guard for Transport
If you're taking a knife outside your usual workspace, a blade guard or sheath provides an extra layer of protection.
Several Chef Supply Co knives are supplied with sheaths, including the Sea Creature Series Chef Knife, which includes a leather sheath for blade protection during storage and transport. Chef Supply Co
6. Never Try to Catch a Falling Knife
If you drop a knife, step back and let it fall.
Trying to catch a falling knife can result in serious cuts. Once it has landed, make sure the area is clear before carefully picking it up by the handle.
7. Passing a Knife to Someone Else
Whenever possible, place the knife down on a stable surface and allow the other person to pick it up themselves.
Avoid handing a knife directly to someone with the blade or point facing them.
Safe Knife Handling Starts With Simple Habits
Good knife safety isn't complicated. Keep control of the handle, keep the blade pointed away from people, avoid distractions and use a protective sheath when transporting a knife.
Chef Supply Co recommends storing knives safely when they're not in use, including using a knife block, magnetic strip, blade guard or sheath to help protect the edge and prevent accidents. Chef Supply Co
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