Cardboard boxes look harmless. They're not. The edges are surprisingly sharp, and thousands of box contacts per shift add up to inevitable cuts, abrasions, and injuries.
Why Boxes Cut
Cardboard edges are stiff and can be surprisingly sharp, especially when dry. Speed compounds the problem — fast handling means forceful contact with edges. Paper cuts from cardboard are painful and slow to heal.
Protection Strategies
Gloves provide excellent protection for box handling if they don't interfere with other tasks. When gloves aren't practical, self-adhering tape on vulnerable fingertips and thumb webs provides targeted protection against cardboard edges.
Cardboard cuts may seem minor, but they're painful, prone to reopening, and can interfere with work for days. Prevention is far better than working through the discomfort.