ABSTRACT

Put a cap or guard on sharp objects to protect against puncture wounds and cuts, maintain sterility, and prevent cross-contamination. The world is full of sharp, pointy things. Besides natural ones such as cacti and porcupines, there are lots of man-made items that could cause puncture wounds were it not for a safety cap. Not only does a cap protect against puncture wounds, it also maintains sterility and prevents the needle tip from getting bent or blunted. The same can be said of the caps on sharp knives, including those used in kitchens and hospital operating rooms. Reinforcing steel used in concrete structures poses impalement hazards that can be mitigated by capping the ends. When it comes to some products, end caps give items a finished appearance, but they can also reduce the risk of causing scratches or puncture wounds.