Fabricating Bivalves

Staff members assigned to open bivalves must be thoroughly trained in safe procedures. They should be equipped with a stainless-steel cutproof glove. Many states now require by law that such gloves be worn. Keep clam knives and oyster knives in good condition, with backups provided in case of breakage. Do not use paring knives and other standard knives, as they break easily and can slip and cause injuries. If a knife breaks while opening a bivalve, that bivalve must be discarded in case metal fragments have contaminated it.