If you are a do-it-yourselfer, then there are a number of projects you can do around the house without having to come out of pocket for a professional’s guidance. However, it is extremely important that you take the same safety precautions that a professional would, or your little home improvement project could end up being very costly, in more ways than one. Here are some safety tips for properly preparing for any home repair project:
Safety goggles. Any time it is possible that objects might be flying toward your face, you need to be wearing safety goggles. This applies to every task from sawing wood to landscaping. When in doubt, protect your eyes.
Ventilation. One of the most dangerous aspects of most home improvement jobs is lack of proper ventilation. The culprit may be paint fumes, chemical fumes, dust, sawdust, or any of a number of awful things that you should never breathe into your lungs. Whatever you are working with, you should make sure that your workspace is properly ventilated by opening all the doors and windows you can, and even using a vacuum system if possible.
Respirator/Mask. In addition to making sure your work space is properly ventilated, you should take extra precautionary measures if you will be working closely with any noxious fumes or toxic dust (like asbestos, for example). Step up your lung safety by wearing a simple air filter mask, or even a respirator.
Turn off the electricity. For even the most minor electrical repairs, it is extremely important that you turn off the electricity before you touch anything. And that does not mean flipping off the light switch. Cut the electricity off at its source – the breaker box.
When working with wood. Any time you use a saw or router, you should use a wood block to guide the wood. It is also a good idea to wear safety gloves made of metal chain.
Power tools and heavy machinery. Any time you need to change a blade, a drill bit, or a router head, you should not only turn the tool or machine off, but unplug it completely. You never know when your machine might have a faulty switch – and you don’t even want to think about the damage that a faulty switch can do if it engages while you are handling the machine.
As you can see, there are some very basic safety precautions you should take every time you do a home improvement project – no matter how big or small the project. Keep these safety tips in mind the next time you decide to show off your handyman skills.
About the Author: Darius Anderberg loves making his own home repairs and small renovations. He recently installed his own lites and louvers and repaired his old door frames to ensure they were insulated. He draws the line at plumbing and electrical repairs!