5 Ways to Stay Safe Doing DIY and Decorating

There’s nothing worse than a DIY accident. They can be minimal or really quite serious if you’re not careful, so that’s why I’d like to talk about the ways in which you can stay safe doing DIY and decorating. 

Image: Purlfrost Windows

Planning is Key

Plan out the work you intend to do before you start. Many accidents happen because of poor planning. How many times have you started working on a project, big or small, without reading the instructions? I know I’m guilty of this but, not only do things often take twice as long, you run the risk of either damaging your home or tools, or causing yourself an injury. 

The Right Equipment

Always make sure you have the right tools and equipment for the job. If you’re not sure what you do need, do you research online or ask a professional if you can, and be prepared in advance. 

For example, if you’re doing any kind of heavy duty DIY at home, perhaps building or renovation work, it’s essential to protect your feet.

Wear a safety shoe, like these above from Airtox, where all of the technical shoes have the new generation of steel toe protection. The new low profile, steel toe cap is designed to protect your toes whilst adhering to EU safety standards. 

I really like the athletic look of these shoes, where they are designed to be casual wear shoes as well as safety shoes. Don’t they look cool – ideal for both men and women.

They have a whole range of technical safety shoes designed for different types of work, even waterproof. Their one-of-a-kind bi component membrane makes their shoes 100% waterproof – ideal when you’re working outdoors in all kinds of weather. 

Service Your Tools

Remember to ensure your tools are in good working order. Check over the bits for your drills, make sure they are fit for purpose. If you find yourself working hard to use your tools, then maybe they need servicing, or even replacing. Don’t wait until you injure yourself before you overhaul your toolkit. 

Take Your Time

Image: Furniture Choice

In the past, it’s always been the case that I’ve hurt myself during DIY tasks when I’m rushing. It’s not my most favourite job, so I often leave the tasks until later, not giving myself enough time to complete the work. 

I’ve cut myself, hurt my wrists and dropped tools on my feet when I’ve felt under pressure to get a job finished, so the lesson has to be, take your time and ensure you have enough time. Don’t rush and don’t get flustered. 

Accept Help

My husband is a big DIYer and NEVER accepts help, even when a second pair of hands would make the job easier and quicker for him. 

If you’re like this, do be careful. Persevering simply to say you’ve finished the work on your own is no fun if you get hurt in the process. You don’t want to be carted of to A&E simply barbecue you were too proud to accept some help. 

So, how many of these tips are you guilty of? Have you hurt yourself recently doing any DIY around the home? If the answer is yes, then maybe step back and take some time to re-evaluate how you tackle the jobs. 

Of course accidents do happen in the safest of environments – we can’t foresee all outcomes – but do ensure you’re doing as much as you can to keep yourself, and those around you, safe and well. 

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