If you’re planning a do-it-yourself home remodeling project, you should be aware of the safety risks you might encounter. Any time you work with tools and equipment, there is some inherent danger of injury. When doing DIY, take the proper steps to protect yourself.

Know the Major Risks

As you tackle each phase of your project, you should know what the major risks might be. For example, when painting, you may face danger from falling from a ladder, inhaling fumes, or dealing with flammable materials. For other projects, you may encounter risk of electric shock or being injured by tools or equipment.

Before you begin, make sure the site is free from any loose objects you could trip over. Test your power tools to make sure they are working properly. Most importantly, locate any electric, water, or gas pipes before cutting or demolition.

Use Safety Equipment

Even for small jobs, it’s important to protect yourself with the proper safety equipment. Safety glasses are essential any time you’re working with hand or power tools or chemicals. A dust mask should also be used when sawing wood or working with drywall.

Hard hats will protect you from falling objects or anything you might bump your head into. Gloves can help protect your hands from splinters and sharp objects. Proper shoes are also important. They should have soles that grip to prevent slips and be sturdy enough to protect your feet from dropped objects.

Work with a Partner

Working with another person can not only help you work faster and more efficiently, it can also make you safer. Many people work with a spouse or significant other , but a friend or relative is also a good choice. Having another pair of hands and eyes on the job can greatly reduce risks.

A partner can help you lift heavy objects, thus reducing the chance of back injury. You can alert one another to sudden problems, such as unnoticed obstacles or things about to tip over. A partner makes ladder use safer, too, by holding the ladder to steady it.

While you may be eager to see the final results of your do-it-yourself project, you should take the time to make safety a priority. Too often, homeowners experience injuries while working around the house. With some preparation, you can complete your DIY home remodeling safely and successfully.

Check out this article on what to consider before starting your home remodel !