DIY Quick Safety Tips

DIY Do's

Always keep safely in mind before you do any DIY activity, use caution, care, and good judgment - if in doubt, don’t!
Always read the labels on cans containing paints, solvents, and other products AND always follow the guidelines and any other warnings
Always read the manufacturer's instructions (especially the warnings) before using any tool, especially power tools with cutting blades/bits
Always pay deliberate attention to how a tool works; if you understand its operation, you are less likely to cause injury
Always know and accept the limitations of your tools - use the appropriate tool for the task. Do not try to use a tool for anything it is not designed to do
Always remove the key from any drill chuck (hand or stand mounted) after you have removed/fitted a drill bit. Do not leave the key in the chuck even when the drill is switched off
Always wear the appropriate protection for the job in hand
Always keep your body (especially hands) away from the business ends of power tools using blades, cutters, and bits
Always make sure that any tool adjustment is secured before using the tool
Always be sure that the electrical supply is safe before using it; do not overload any circuit. Make sure all power tools, extension cables and electrical outlets are serviceable and undamaged
Do not use power tools in wet conditions
Always check for possible cables/pipework before drilling or cutting 'blind' into any wall or other surface. Take care when you cannot see the reverse side of what you are drilling or cutting
Always use special care when using a saw bench; older benches may not have the latest safest features (blade guard, safety cut-out etc.)
Always clamp small work pieces firmly to a bench or work surface when using a power tool on them
Always remember that things can go wrong very quickly and the body's reaction will not always be quick enough
Always use both hands where a tool is designed to be used two handed
Always ensure that the work area is adequately lit
Always check your local building regulations before carrying out any new construction or major remodeling
Plan your project thoroughly. Draw plans and measure accurately
Always check the security of a ladder or set of steps before you start to climb
Ask for help from experienced people or handy family and friends
Ensure that you have the right tools, equipment and know-how

DIY DONT’S

Don’t attempt a project that you know is too big for you - or requires expertise
Don’t turn down advice from those in the know
Take risks or use tools that you are unfamiliar with
Cut corners to save time and money
Underestimate the value of preparation
Use inferior materials
Overestimate your abilities if you are new to the world of DIY
Never wear loose clothing, hanging hair or jewellery when using power tools
Never try to use a tool (especially a power tool) for any task it was not designed to do
Never work with power tools when you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs or are tired
Never use a power tool which is damaged in any way (case, switch or cable etc.). If it starts to make an odd noise or emit smells - stop and investigate
Never cut small, loose pieces of wood, metal or other material using a power tool - small off-cuts which you cannot hold or secure, will tend to fly off with potential for injury
Never change a drill bit, router cutter or saw blade or make any adjustment to a 'cutting' power tool - until the power cable has been unplugged. Do not rely only upon the switch on the tool or outlet
Never use power tools if you are at risk of overbalancing
Never work with blunt tools (saws, drill bits, cutters etc.). Sharpen the tools yourself, have them sharpened, or throw them away and use a new tool
Never drill or cut 'blind' into a surface before checking the possible location of electrical cables or pipework
Never saw a large work piece unless it is well supported both sides of the cut or there is someone else to support the off-cut
Never carry sharp tools in your pocket. If you want to carry such tools, use a special-purpose tool belt
Never relay on your weight to stabilise a ladder or mobile steps, if necessary get someone to stand at the bottom or use stabilisers
Never overreach when working on a ladder or steps, always re-position the ladder/steps