Protection and security

According to the ministry of health in France, each year, close to 300,000 accidents are linked to home improvement and DIY projects. Following simple guidelines (use of materials and adequate protection, following the operating manual…) would be enough to lower the number of serious accidents, gardening or construction accidents, falls, cuts, intoxication, burns.

These accidents concern more particularly men (80%). Hands and eyes are the most injured body parts during these accidents.

The measures to take before starting home improvement projects:

• Have tools of quality, adapted for the job and in good shape.
• Regularly maintain your tools. Have a clean, organized, ventilated, and luminous space dedicated to your home improvement project(s).
• Make sure that your tetanus shot is up to date (this shot has to be done every ten years) and that you have a well-equipped aid kit within reach.
• Take off your rings, bracelets, watches, etc…
• Be equipped with chemical resistant gloves , masks, protective glasses, reinforced closed-toe shoes, in addition, if you are using a loud machine for an extended period of time, ear protections are advised.
• Do not do home improvement work while intoxicated…
• Make sure that your kids and pets stay away from the area where you are working.

Watch for dangerous situations:

• Plugged-in electric machines and tools (saw, drill, lawn mower, etc.).
• Electrical machines and tools for which securities have been deactivated.
• Chemical products in containers left open (risk of being knocked over) or closed but not water tight (risk of intoxication with the vapors) ;
• Water supply or container near an electrical appliance or an outlet;
• Shaky ladders and stepstools , on a slippery surface, without security or support, or not well propped up;
• Wood or metal chippings and dust in the air (sanding, sawing, etc.)
• Working on an object not well secured to a base (investing in a vice would prevent accidents due to objects skidding or suddenly slipping under the pressure of the tools).

The use of chemical products (paint, solvent, glue, varnish…):

• Before using the products read the instruction label and notice and look out for cautionary pictures and drawings. Follow the advice and the recommendations given by the manufacturer.
• Do not mix two products with each other without making sure that it is ok by the manufacturer.
• Never store a chemical product in a container other than its own and never in a food container, even with a label. Close the containers airtight and work in an area with ventilation.
• Be careful if you have asthma or have a restrained respiratory capacity, or if you are pregnant.
• Wear a protective mask.
• Store products somewhere high out of children’s reach and in a closed and locked space.
• Do this for dangerous tools as well.

To prevent accidents and their consequences, invest in protective equipment adapted for your project and keep an eye out during risky situations.