Paper shredders can help you dispose of any documents you no longer need. However, improper use of these devices can cause paper jams. Luckily, you can fix this issue by following these four tips.
Unplug the Shredder
If your shredder gets jammed, the first thing you should do is unplug the device. The blades of a shredder are very dangerous and can harm you, so cutting its power will lower your chances of hurting yourself on the blades.
Pull Out the Paper
The best way to unjam a printer is to identify and mitigate the cause of the jam. In most cases, this means you need to remove the paper stuck in the blades. The paper likely folded while shredding, or you put in too many sheets at once. We recommend investing in a large-capacity shredder that can handle high volumes when shredding.
Use the Reverse Function
Most shredders come with a reverse function to unjam the device. Pulling out paper can be difficult if the jam is deep, and you should avoid reaching into the blades in order to protect your fingers. Use the reverse function to make paper removal easy and safe.
Protecting Your Fingers
You should never put your hands near the shredder’s blades. Even after unplugging the device, the tension in the blades could cut you as you take out the jammed paper, so again, avoid sticking your fingers into the blades. The most important tip for dealing with a jammed paper shredder is to protect your fingers while fixing the device.
Disposing of documents in an office or at home can keep you organized. Investing in a shredder can be useful for your business, as you’ll make room for more important documents. Learning how to deal with a jammed shredder in order to protect yourself and maximize your device’s lifespan!
