NEGOSENTRO.COM | If you are considering doing some DIY, then you should always make safety your top priority. So many things can go wrong when taking care of jobs around the house. There are lots of good reasons to do it yourself but don’t do something that’s going to injure you or your family.
Just make sure to have appropriate insurance to cover the financial loss. You can find many types of house cover from The AA Insurance to choose the best one as per your need.
Avoid working on electrical and gas equipment, make sure you use the right tools, and don’t be afraid to call in the professionals if you need them.
With that said, here are some tips on how to prevent DIY disasters.
- Wear Protective Clothing
You shouldn’t start a project before you’ve put on the right protective equipment. High quality protective clothing covers as much as skin as possible. Also wear protective boots and gloves, and avoid wearing loose-fitting clothes or jewellery that could become entangled in your tools. Lastly, be sure to wear a mask/respirator if working with chemicals.
- Read – and Follow – the Instructions
The idea that men don’t need instructions is outdated. Make sure you read through the instructions for whatever it is you are using. Take special care to read the safety instructions of any new or unfamiliar tools and follow any recommended safety precautions when working with chemicals.
- Use The Right Tools
You should make sure you have all the tools you need to get the job done. Also make sure that you only use tools as instructed in the manufacturer’s guidelines. Using tools for a purpose they weren’t designed for can be very dangerous.
Make sure all power tools are in good condition and electrical cables aren’t damaged or tangled before turning them on. Replace any tools that are in bad condition. It’s not worth the risk.
- Don’t Take Shortcuts
Try to estimate how long you expect the project will take to do properly. If you feel you’re low on time and there’s still some work left, resist the urge to cut corners and rush through the job. Hurrying through the work means you are more likely to have an accident or make a mistake. Pack your tools away and come back to the job when you’ve got more time.
- Keep the Place Tidy
They say that a tidy work environment is a safe work environment. You want to make sure your workplace is as clutter-free and clean as possible. Don’t leave your tools lying around because they can become a tripping hazard. Clean up any spills immediately to reduce slipping risk, and don’t put heavy objects on an unsteady base or above head height. That’s just asking for trouble.
- Leave the Electrics Alone
The electrical current that powers your home is more than enough to kill. Never ever underestimate the dangerous power of electricity. Take time to locate cables and wiring before drilling into a wall. Invest in a cable detector to help do this.
Before you start work near electrical wiring and power supplies, shut the power off from the mains. If you aren’t sure about something, no matter what it is, consult a qualified electrician for their advice. Never try to do an electrical repair by yourself.
- Leave the Gas alone Too
You should always hire a qualified professional to manage gas appliances, including fitting and servicing them. Never attempt to move and fit appliances by yourself. While it might sound simple enough to install a cooker or fireplace, it’s just as easy to botch the job and risk a gas leak.
As you take care of general home improvements, locate gas pipes and avoid them to reduce the risk of a gas leak. Finally, make sure you don’t cover any vents or flues because this leads to increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
