How To Open Rigid Plastic Clamshell Packages Safely
The large, rigid 'clamshell' packages may help to secure items for shipping and cut down on theft, but they can be a nightmare for consumers.Wrap rage is a term for the frustration they inspire.In 2004, over 6,000 Americans went to the emergency room with injuries because of opening difficult packaging.There is a list of how to preserve your hands and sanity when confronting a pack that has no apparent means of entry.
Step 1: Before you open the package, check the back for an opening.
In response to consumer complaints, some manufacturers are including slit, perforations, and other starting points for opening their packages on the back.If there are any pop-together tabs that can pull apart, look around the sides.
Step 2: A manual can opener is required.
Step 3: If it were a can, open it.
You won't have to cut your hands with the sharp wheels of the can opener.Cut open one side because it won't go around the corners.This will give you a lot of room.
Step 4: Cut all the way around with a knife between the two layers of plastic.
Since the blade is inside the package and pointing towards the center, it's much safer than trying to stab through the plastic and wedge the tip in between.The rest of the plastic should be easy to cut with a good knife.
Step 5: There are dangers to using sharp implements.
The introduction states that people cut themselves frequently.
Step 6: Carefully cut around the edge with the best scissors or box cutter you can get, until the package opens.
Don't cut across the middle of the package, it's the most cumbersome way to go, and you could cut through the instructions.If you're right-handed, start on the right side of the package.Start on the left if you're left handed.If your scissors or knife aren't sharp enough, be willing to admit it.Your uncut hands will be appreciated later.You can borrow or buy a can opener.
Step 7: There are products for opening packages, but they are not always effective.
Step 8: If you can get your hands on them, aviation snips are designed for cutting thin metal and will work on rigid plastic as well.
The blades are not sharp and the compound hinge gives extra leverage.