That's an excellent and often overlooked question! Yes, absolutely. In modern urban design, a primary focus for public trash cans is user safety. You'll find that most contemporary models installed in cities, parks, and transit areas are specifically engineered with smooth, rounded edges and handles.
Gone are the days of sharp, metal seams or jagged openings. Manufacturers now use materials like molded polyethylene, stainless steel with rolled edges, or coated metals that eliminate burrs and sharp corners. The handles are typically designed to be broad and comfortable, often integrated seamlessly into the body or with a generous radius that fits the hand without pinching.
This design philosophy is part of broader "public furniture safety standards." The goal is to prevent cuts, snagged clothing, or more serious injuries, especially in high-traffic areas where people might brush against them. It also considers durability and ease of cleaning. So next time you use one, you can appreciate that its smooth finish is a deliberate and important feature for your protection.