Essential DIY Saftey Tips
DIY is a national obsession. There are large parts of the internet devoted to DIY, home improvement. To Dad’s, that’s why Bank Holiday’s were invented. Unfortunately, there are also a lot of DIY related injuries and 1 in 6 people who embark on a DIY project injure themselves in some way.
Many of these injuries can be avoided with proper safety precautions.
Get The Right Tools For The Job
The right tools can make a job quicker and easier. Ensure that you have the correct equipment for the job you’re doing. You can use it as a chance to add to your tool collection. There are many places online you can buy tools, visit website to find the right ones for you.
Invest In Safety Equipment
Each DIY task has its own particular dangers, which is why you need to have a range of safety equipment at hand. This can include:
- Overalls and protective clothing
- Eye protection
- Face masks
- Gloves
- Electricity and water pipe detector
Ensure that you aren’t wearing baggy clothes or jewellery that can get caught up in equipment.
Work in a well-ventilated area, especially if you are working with chemicals or pain.
Keep your work area tidy and free of clutter so you don’t trip or slip on anything.
Store tools away safely and out of the way of children.
Learn To Work A Heights
Some DIY projects require us to climb a ladder. Rather than trying to balance on a rickety kitchen chair, invest in a step stool or a set of stepladders. They are specifically designed to be used in this way and distribute your weight safely. Trying to use a chair or a stool is very dangerous and one shift of your weight can cause the whole thing to tip over.
Leave Some Things To The Professionals
For some people, being self-sufficient is a point of pride, others will hire someone to change a lightbulb.
There’s a limit for even the most ardent DIY enthusiast. Don’t take on tasks that are too big for one person of that you’re not qualified for. Tasks that deal with water, electricity or gas are best left to the professionals as they are not only a risk while you are doing them, but could lead to a very serious issue later.
Keep A First Aid Kit Nearby
Even if you’re extremely careful, accidents will happen from time to time. It’s good practice to keep a first aid kit nearby for those cuts and scrapes you pick up. Also, if you’re attempting something a bit more dangerous, and are by yourself, keep your mobile phone with you. For example, if you fell off a stepladder and injured your leg, you could call a friend or ambulance for help.
Final Thoughts
Doing a job yourself and doing it well, is a great feeling. It’s easy to get complacent and forget to follow some of the basic safety rules from time to time. Many accidents are entirely preventable when you take to right precautions and use your common sense.
Have a look at this great infographic
