How to Use a File Shredder
Using a file shredder to dispose of sensitive documents helps prevent identity theft. In the United States, incidents of identity theft rank as the fastest growing crime, according to the National Crime Prevention Council. Cross-cut shredding with the use of a file shredder makes it difficult--if not impossible--for thieves to retrieve bank account numbers, social security numbers and other details from discarded personal documents. While office environments may opt for industrial shredding services, everyone can use a trash-can sized file shredder for personal office or home use.
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Things You'll Need
- File shredder Trash can Wooden ruler Scissors Shredder lubricant White paper
Instructions
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Gather all outdated or unwanted personal documents. Select paperwork that includes your full name, address, maiden name (if applicable), birth date, account numbers, social security number or personal identification numbers (PIN).
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Remove all paper closure devices including staples, paper clips and tape. These items can jam or damage the paper shredder.
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Feed loose paper and envelopes into the paper retrieval area. Push the paper items in a few inches. The shredder will grab the paper and self-feed it into the shredder. Check the shredder operations manual for guidelines on the number of sheets of paper the shredder can accept during each batch.
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Slide plastic credit cards, savers club cards or other heavy-weight cards into the appropriate smaller slot, near the paper retrieval area. Depending on the manufacturer's specification, the machine may handle one or more plastic cards at a time.
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Unplug the shredder after each use. Open the machine and dump the shredded paper into a trash can. Visually check the cutting heads for a build-up of paper. Use the end of a wooden ruler to push jammed paper off the shredding head. Use scissors to finish destroying the partially shredded documents and deposit them into the trash can.
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Spray shredder lubricant on the shredding head once a month or more often as needed, depending on frequency of use. Re-assemble the shredder, plug in the machine and turn it on in the Reverse mode to evenly distribute the lubricant.
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Turn the machine back to the On mode so it accepts new paper for shredding. Insert a few sheets of clean, white paper to absorb the excess lubricant. Repeat the paper shredding process until the paper comes out clean and dry.
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Tips & Warnings
When leaning over the file shredder make sure long hair, neckties or other decorative clothing accessories do not come near the paper retrieval area of the shredder.
Place the file shredder in a location inaccessible to children. The paper retrieval device can pull small fingers into the machine and cause injury, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Paper shredder image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
