No one ever thinks about ending up in the hospital
, losing an appendage, or nursing serious cuts and bruises when they're planning their latest home improvement project. But these often overlooked unfortunate results are a reality for too many home improver's and hobbyists. In this article, we'll help you make sure you stay safe and end up fit and healthy at the end of your project so you can enjoy all the fruits of your labor! Just follow these seven simple tips:
1. While you don't always need to buy the most expensive tools, you should be careful about what bargain tools you buy (especially used ones). Some bargain basement tools can have a higher chance of malfunctioning and injuring you. Inspect every tool you buy for properly functioning safe guards.
2. Always wear safety glasses when using power tools or when working on any job that produces air born debris. A piece of flying debris can easily cause serious eye damage that will last a lifetime.
3. Keep all your tools properly maintained. Make sure to lubricate, sharpen, and tighten all the pieces so they continue to run smoothly for a long time (and keep you injury free). You should inspect your tools every time you use them regardless of proper maintenance.
4. As tempting as it is to climb up that drain pipe or balance on the edge of the dining room chair, investing in a solid step ladder will not only give you a more solid base to do your work from but will also help prevent nasty falls you won't want to explain to the doctor.
5. Be sure to make sure any electrical circuit you are working on or around is disconnected and that no electricity is flowing through it.
6. Don't be ashamed to seek out expert instruction if you aren't sure about how to properly use a certain tool. There is nothing shameful about learning how to safely and effectively use a new piece of equipment.
7. Be aware of your surroundings and focused on the task at hand to prevent accidental missteps. One wrong move with certain tools can easily cause serious, life threatening injuries.