Do you have a home improvement project you plan to tackle yourself?
Whether you’re a seasoned do-it-yourselfer or a relative newbie, getting the job done properly requires a pre-project safety plan.
So, before you get started, check out these expert tips for making sure your DIY project is injury-free.
Know your limits
It’s important to be honest with yourself about the difficulty of work involved and your abilities – or the lack thereof. The National Home Security Alliance recommends reconsidering a DIY project if:
- You have trouble understanding the directions.
- You may not have time to complete the job without rushing, or if leaving it unfinished would create safety or health hazards in your home.
- Serious injury or property damage is possible.
Tool time
Will your project require the use of power tools? Follow these instructions from the Power Tool Institute as you prepare for and complete the job:
- Make sure the tool is in proper working condition and the right one for the job.
- Always wear personal protective equipment, such as eye protection, hearing protection and a dust mask, when applicable.
- Check that the tool is powered down before plugging it in.
- Perform a visual inspection to ensure all safety guards are in place.
- Never overreach or rush to finish.
It’s electric
Be aware of the electrical hazards in your home as you work. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, electrical malfunctions account for 35,000 home fires each year, causing more than 1,100 injuries, 500 deaths and $1.4 billion in property damage.
Guidance from the ESFI includes:
- Never run cords under rugs, carpets, doors or windows.
- Unplug appliances that aren’t in use to mitigate the risk of shock and fire.
- Don’t overload outlets.
- Regularly inspect electrical and extension cords for damage. Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis.
- Keep paper and other possibly combustible items at least 3 feet away from space heaters and heat sources.
- Don’t plug space heaters or fans into an extension cord or power strip.
Ladders and stepladders
Stepladders may look simple, but falls – and injuries – are common. When using a stepladder, the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety recommends:
- Checking the stepladder’s load rating to ensure it can support your weight and any tools you’ll be using when standing on it.
- Making sure it doesn’t have slippery substances on it.
- Inspecting the ladder before use. If it’s cracked or corroded, or has loose rivets or defective braces or other parts, it’s time to get a new one.
- Fully opening the stepladder’s spreaders and shelf, and locking its braces.
- Keeping the stepladder stable on a firm, even surface, and never climbing so high that your knees are above the top of the ladder.
If you’ll be using a ladder, the NHSA recommends wearing safety glasses or goggles, as well as thick work gloves, to help prevent contact with debris or jagged material. If the work calls for using a power tool, wear earplugs as well.
Follow the “rule of four,” the NHSA says – for every 4 feet the ladder rises about the ground, place its base 1 foot from the wall or other surface. Brace the feet of the ladder or find someone to hold it for you, and tie the top of the ladder to a solid, secure object.
Other tips from the NHSA:
- Make sure you have adequate lighting, especially when working in enclosed spaces and when it’s dark outside.
- Allow yourself ample room to work, safely moving obstacles or clutter as necessary.
- Don’t let kids, pets or other surprise visitors enter your workspace.
Chemical considerations
Does your project involve handling or using chemicals, or require you to clean an area as you work?
A blog post from Children’s Hospital Los Angeles reminds you to store all chemicals and cleaning products out of reach of children, while securely shutting doors so pets can’t get in. Follow all instructions for safe chemical handling and room ventilation provided on the label. And never leave chemical containers open and unattended.
Good luck with your project!
