DIY Safety
October 10th, 2008
Before starting up on any DIY or Home Improvement project you should always ensure you make the proper arrangements beforehand to ensure you undertake the project in a safe manner. Whether you are fully experienced or not you should always ensure you read up on all safety precautions and informational material regarding a project and all the tools required for the job before you start. More than 200,000 people are injured every single year as a direct result of DIY projects and around 70 people are killed. Most of these accidents can be easily avoided with the right knowledge and attention.
Follow these top safety tips to avoid a DIY disaster in your home this year:
Replace your tools
If any of your tools has a broken head or handle or damage to any area whether they are power tools or manual tools you should replace the entire tool or get it repaired by a qualified professional. Do not be tempted to continue using the tool.
Equipment Standards
Always purchase equipment and appliances that comply with British or European standards and carry the approved quality mark. If it does not carry the right label, do not use it, it can be extremely dangerous.
Avoid Shocks
When working with electrical works or in their vicinity, ensure you switch off the mains and cover up all switches and outlets that are broken with the right tape. Take out the fuse and keep it with you so that even if the power gets turned on again by accident, you won’t get an electrical shock. Always ensure you read up thoroughly on electrical items and wiring before you get started.
Read the Manual
Read all instructions, warnings and advice beforehand especially if you are using equipment for the first time. Read everything carefully and thoroughly and follow the guidelines strictly. Even if you have used the equipment before you should always remind yourself by having a read through of the manual, you never know what you might have forgotten that could be extremely important.
Un-plug it first
Always make sure you un-plug an item in use before you lift, adjust or handle it. Electrical items such as power tools and lawn mowers should never be touched or handled careless when they are still plugged in. If it’s still plugged in, it’s still a threat and handling blades can be very dangerous if there is an electrical presence.
Categories: Home improvement
