Shredders are extremely useful pieces of equipment, and efficiently dispose confidential documents and sensitive information. We recommend all offices have a shredder for data destruction, whether that’s a home office or a business office. However, there are some mistakes to avoid when shredding documents, which could potentially have devastating effects. In this blog post, we are sharing common mistakes to avoid when shredding documents.
Mistakes to Avoid when Shredding Confidential Documents
Overloading the shredder with too much paper
Overstuffing a shredder can cause paper jams and may damage or break the machine. Even if the paper does pass through the machine, it may not be shredded efficiently. As a result, confidential information may still be visible, which could lead to a data breach. Frequently overloading the shredder with too much paper can also reduce the machine’s lifespan, potentially leading to expensive replacement costs.
Using the wrong shredder type
There are several types of shredders available, each suited to specific requirements. Using the wrong type of shredder can cause problems such as inefficient shredding and potential security risks. For example, strip-cut shredders are popular for busy workplaces, due to their quick speeds. However, they are unsuitable if high security is required. This is because strips of paper may not be shredded enough, and people may be able to put the strips back together to recover confidential or sensitive information. Furthermore, this could cause a security breach with devastating impacts on your organization, which is why you must use the correct type of shredder.
Not checking for staples beforehand
You must check documents for staples and paper clips before you insert them in the shredder. These items can damage the machine if they pass through, and they can also harm the blades. Staples can build up inside the machine and cause blockages, resulting in paper jams and inefficiency. Most general shredders can only shred paper, not any other materials. Specific shredders are available to shred paper clips, as well as credit cards and other plastic or metal items.
Incorrectly disposing of shredded paper
Shredding confidential documents is necessary for data protection, but what are you doing with the paper after shredding? Incorrectly disposing of paperwork can compromise yours or your clients' safety, and may cause legal issues. Data protection has become a huge priority for businesses and governments in recent years, and with regulations constantly changing, it is essential to stay protected from hefty fines.
Putting different materials in the machine
Unless your shredder manual says otherwise, you should only insert paper documents into the machine. Thicker materials like cardstock are suitable for industrial shredders, but not always for a standard machine. If you need to shred cardboard, you can find specific shredders for cardboard and similar materials.
Not emptying the shredder bin
It is important to empty the shredder bin once you notice it is full. Otherwise it can overflow, which can cause inefficiencies while shredding documents. Therefore, emptying the bin will help maintain optimal shredder performance and decrease the likelihood of errors or problems from occurring.
Summary
You should now have a better insight into mistakes to avoid when shredding confidential documents. To recap, you should avoid overstuffing the shredder, always use a suitable shredder, always remove staples before shredding, and make sure you dispose of shredded documents correctly. If your shredder is no longer working efficiently, it may be time for an upgrade. You can browse our collection of shredders here. We sell various types of shredders for different needs. For more information about our shredders, or to find a custom solution for your organization, get in touch today and speak to a member of our expert team.
