Paper shredders come in all sizes and capabilities. From desk-side office shredders to industrial shredders, and everything in between, the task of choosing a new shredder for your organization's office can be somewhat daunting. Much of the decision-making process is quite simple: size and capacity are the main factors. However, your particular situation may require a bit more detailed research. Are you shredding mostly confidential documents, perhaps bank statements or personal identification materials? If so, you may be a perfect candidate for a High Security Paper Shredder.
High security paper shredders are designed to cut paper into tiny confetti. Many government agencies require shredders meet NSA/CSS specifications 02-01, also known as Level 6 Security. This regulation requires a specific maximum shred size in order to protect secure documents. Be sure that any high security paper shredder purchased for government use is certified under this regulation. Most shredder manufacturers are very forthcoming with such information, so if it's hard to find, there is a good chance the particular shredder you're looking at does not meet these guidelines.
Typically, high security shredders use some form of cross-cut technology to ensure paper size does not exceed GSA Regulations for High Security shredding. Some shredders are capable of cutting paper into confetti 3mm x 8mm in size. Pretty amazing, right? A shredder with this sort of security level is plenty sufficient for DOD applications that require shredding of Top Secret, COMSEC, INFOSEC, and CRYPTOLOGIC documents on a regular basis. In order to keep these and other important documents confidential, high security paper shredding is a must!
If you are having trouble narrowing your search, I have put together a short list of some popular options for you to consider before you purchase:
Deskside Shredder: The Fellowes MicroShred MS-450Cs is a perfect unit for personal or deskside use in your office. Typically best for light-duty use in an area with limited space, these shredders are great little workhorses.
Departmental Shredder: The Kobra 260 HS-2/6 High Security Shredder is perfect for a medium-size office with a number of people using the shredder. This particular unit is capable of shredding 1/32"x1/4" pieces with a capacity of 6 sheets at a time at a speed of 20 feet per minute.
Commercial Shredder: For heavy-duty applications in large offices, hospitals, or government agencies, the Dahle 20394 High Security Shredder is optimal. This unit is capable of shredding full sheets of paper into 15,500 tiny particles. It shreds up to 11 sheets at a time at 35 feet per minute.
