Tops 5 Safety Tips of DIY Projects

Taking on a do-it-yourself (DIY) project can be a gratifying experience. A key factor in DIY project success is careful research and safe execution.

Follow these tips to stay safe:

1. Dress with your safety in mind. Serious injuries can be easily prevented with a few simple precautions. If you have long hair, tie it back. Remove jewelry and loose clothing that could get caught in machinery.
2. Wear a dust mask, respirator and safety goggles. Understand the materials you're working with and protect yourself against inhaling dust particles or fumes. Similarly, safety goggles reduce the likelihood of sustaining optical injuries.
3. When working with electricity, wear rubber-soled shoes. Rubber acts as an insulator and reduces conductivity of electricity and your chances of electrocution. However, in most cases, it is recommended that electrical repairs are best left to professionals.
4. Keep any machinery and equipment in top shape. Drill bits, cutters, and other blades that are left to dull can cause serious injuries. Dull blades can bind or kickback. Keep your blades sharp and up-to-date.

Use ladders safely. For every four feet of height, your ladder should sit at least one foot from the vertical surface upon which it is leaning. Know the height of your ladder and situate it accordingly. Never step on the top two rungs of a ladder.