Note: this is a guest post and consideration was received for its publication. photo: CC-licensed image by Susan Serra
Access equipment suppliers Globe Ladders know a
thing or two about safety and eliminating risk when it comes to tackling large
scale DIY jobs, and the task of redesigning the kitchen is as large as domestic
projects come. The kitchen is one of the most central and widely used rooms in
the home and giving it a new lease of life can be a rewarding experience, but
it isn’t without its dangers. A kitchen can pose endless hazards – make sure
you’re prepared for them with the right tools, a good deal of forward planning
and proper safety equipment.
Get to know your tools
Even if you have used tools on a previous
project, you will find the kitchen to be an entirely different kettle of fish.
Make sure you know how to use them in this new context by consulting the
official manuals and ask friends or relatives for assistance. A kitchen
remodelling involves everything from the cabinets and tiles to the lights and flooring
so ensure you are confident with your tools before putting your project and
yourself at risk.
Create a safe environment
There are so many hazards involved with
redecorating from wires and loose floorboards to slippery surfaces. Avoid
catastrophe from the get go by creating a safe working environment. Cordon off
all entrances to the kitchen and lay down old sheets on the floor and on the kitchen
work surfaces if necessary. If you’re going to be removing or redecorating
overhead cabinets, you’ll need non-slip material
to provide a sturdy, even surface. Also keep all tools out of sight to protect
others, particularly small children, from injury.
Know your psychical limits
With
any big scale home project, it is vital to know your own limits, both for
yourself and for the safety of others. Never try and push yourself too hard get
the job completed as this is when accidents start to happen. Over-estimating
how much you can lift for example is only going to induce back injury so make
sure assistance is on hand. Also, never attempt to work or operate any kind of
machinery (even the smallest tools) when tired.
Knowledge can be half the battle when it comes
to DIY projects so it could be worth looking into further guidance on health and safety
in the home. As well as making and supplying safety equipment, Globe Ladders
provides training courses which can result in a certificate stating your
capacity and understanding of essential safety awareness.