DIY projects are a great way to get the work done just the way you want. These types or projects can also help you gain new skills, save money, and complete projects on your own timeline. While there are many more reasons that you may choose to choose a do-it-yourself project rather than hiring an expert, you should still keep in mind the safety risks that DIY projects can pose.
Whether you are an expert DIY'er or you are just getting into it, safety should always remain a top priority when it comes to working on your project. That is exactly why we have put together this list of safety tips to ensure that you are keeping safe when working on your project.
Ready to begin your DIY project? Make sure you check out these tips below before getting started:
Tip #1: Wear Proper Gear
Be sure to invest in gear and clothing that is best suited to protect you while working on any do-it-yourself project. Depending on the project you are working on, this could be a number of different items. For example, if you are painting or working with harsh chemicals, you will likely need a respirator or mask to shield yourself from inhaling the dangerous fumes. If you are working with saws, especially chainsaws, it is always important to wear safety goggles to make sure wood doesn’t find its way into your eyes.
No matter what specific project you are working on, one piece of gear that you will likely need no matter what, is a good pair of sturdy work boots. These will provide you with stable footing, but will also protect your feet against potential punctures or other hazards that can occur on a construction site.
It is also best that you wear clothes that fit well and are not too baggy. If you have long hair, make sure you pull it back as well. This will protect your hair and clothing from getting stuck around any power tools, which would be a recipe for disaster!
Tip #2: Don't Use Broken Tools
It may seem like a rather obvious tip, but sometimes DIY'ers are willing to take a risk on a dull or damaged tool. When you do so, you are putting yourself at serious risk. Broken tools pose a numerous amount of safety hazards.
If you’ve got old tools, consider upgrading and purchasing new, reliable equipment that will get the job done while keeping you protected. Swing by our design center or give us a call to learn about the materials and tools that Building Solutions Bend offers.
Tip #3: Handle Tools Properly
You may own the proper tools, but do you know the correct way to use them? A huge safety hazard for DIY'ers is not using tools properly. Equipment such as power tools or high-speed blades should not be taken lightly. Before you get started on your project, make sure that you watch some tutorials and read up on some how-to's to make sure that you are handling your equipment the right way.
If you have any questions about how to use the tools, we would be happy to work with you. Get in touch with us and we can either provide you detailed instruction or point you in the right direction for a tutorial on the specific products that you are working with.
Tip #4: Use the Right Tools
Many DIY'ers will try to take shortcuts or simply just use what they have for a project instead of purchasing new materials. You may not want to invest in buying new tools, but using the wrong equipment for your project will likely lead to using the tool improperly, which is a number one cause for DIY injuries.
When it comes to DIY projects, don’t take the shortcut. Be smart and stay safe by using the right materials! Our team of experts would be happy to walk you through this process and help you find the right equipment to get the job done. In fact, our design center in Bend has a wide selection of the best tools from top name brands like Makita and Diablo, and we always have special offers to browse.
Tip #5: Take Breaks
Home improvement projects can be exhausting and with that, you’ll likely become fatigued quickly. Pushing yourself too much will increase your risk for injury or poor decision making, so make sure that you factor this into your work day! It will be important that you take multiple breaks and know when to end each day so that you don't push yourself beyond your limits.
Along with this, be sure that your breaks include drinking plenty of water and replenishing your body with food and nutrients to keep you fueled for the big project.
Tip #6: Clean Up
As a DIY'er, you’ll also need to double as your own safety manager. Cleaning up after yourself is an important component that will keep your job site safe. Make sure that scraps of wood and other project materials are picked up and thrown out so that they do not pose any safety hazards to yourself or others who may be in the area. Wrapping up power chords and putting away tools after use is also a great habit to get into as it will avoid any tripping hazards.
Tip #7: Don’t Rush
You may be tempted to finish your DIY project as soon as you can, but in doing so, you will be tempted to cut corners and rush to finish the job. Not only can this lead to injury, but will also lower the quality of your work, which may cause you to have to re-do or fix your project later.
Some projects are best left to the experts, but if you must complete a DIY project, make sure you are taking the right safety precautions to ensure your project is completed well and that you stay safe while working on it.
Whether you’ve got a big or small project in the works, Building Solutions is here to help you get the job done. Bring your plans into our design center today and learn how we can help you. We strive to help you by providing:
In-house Takeoffs: We use your plans to generate accurate takeoffs for efficient material sourcing. Let our expert staff calculate exactly what you need.
Prompt Delivery Crew: Our excellent delivery fleet and drivers mean you get your materials when and where you need them.
Customer Satisfaction: Why were we voted Central Oregon's Material Supplier of the Year? Selection and service. Let us show you the Building Solutions difference.
Our experienced staff will help you get the right tools for any job. We are Central Oregon’s one-stop-shop for building materials and our reputation was built on quality and service.
Visit us in Bend today, and find everything you need to complete your next project. Oregon’s top home builders and leading contractors choose Building Solutions to get the materials they need to do the job right.
Give us a call today or stop by our design center to learn how we can partner together on your next DIY project.
📞 (541) 388-9988
📍 62960 Boyd Acres Road - Bend, OR