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Child safely using a peeler in forest school
Forest Schools

Using Knives and Peelers Risk Assessment Template

The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for knife and peeler activities.

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Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026

In This Guide

1 Introduction2 Benefits3 Hazards4 Checklist5 Related

Essential guidance for knife and peeler safety

Learning to use knives and peelers safely is a core forest school skill that builds responsibility, focus, and practical life abilities. Children develop fine motor control while creating useful items from natural materials.

This guide covers key hazards including blade slippage, improper handling, tool storage, and maintaining appropriate supervision ratios.

Hands safely using a peeler on wood
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor Learning
Activity Benefits

Why knife and peeler skills matter

Blade Safety

Develops blade safety, grip technique, and focused attention.

Confidence

Promotes confidence through real-life skill mastery under supervision.

Motor Control

Improves muscle control and hand coordination for slicing and peeling.

Responsibility

Fosters responsibility for safety and respect for tools.

Risk Identification

Key hazards & control measures

Cuts and LacerationsHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Cuts, lacerations, and puncture wounds from improper blade handling.

Control Measures
  • Teach correct grip technique
  • Cut away from body
  • Sharp blades (safer than dull)
  • 1:1 or 1:2 supervision ratio
Blade SlippageHigh Risk
Potential Harm

Lacerations and injury from blade slipping during use.

Control Measures
  • Stable working position
  • Dry hands and materials
  • Appropriate wood selected
  • Work at correct height
Poor Tool StorageMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Cuts, rust damage, or unauthorized use from improper storage.

Control Measures
  • Locked storage box
  • Tool count in and out
  • Sheaths on all blades
  • Regular maintenance
Passing Tools UnsafelyMedium Risk
Potential Harm

Cuts and injuries when passing or carrying tools incorrectly.

Control Measures
  • Teach "elbow, present, thank you"
  • Walk with blade down
  • No running with tools
  • Designated tool zone

This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 28 hazards and 38+ control measures for Using Knives and Peelers, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.

Safety Checklist

Knives and peelers safety checklist

Tool Preparation

  • Blades inspected
  • Tools sharpened
  • Tool count completed
  • First aid kit ready

Work Area

  • Designated tool zone
  • Seated positions ready
  • Good lighting
  • Space between children

Before Activity

  • Safety briefing given
  • Technique demonstrated
  • Rules understood
  • Supervision ratios met

After Session

  • All tools returned
  • Tool count verified
  • Secure storage locked
  • Incidents recorded

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