Do It Yourself (DIY) home improvements have become popular as homeowners look to save money. Also, the information required to complete different projects has become more readily available. A crucial component of completing such projects is keeping yourself safe. In addition to knowing how to use various tools safely, homeowners should invest in safety gear, especially when completing extended projects or if they do so regularly. So, what personal protective equipment (PPE) should avid DIYers invest in?
Safety Glasses Or Eyewear
Home improvement projects typically produce a lot of dust and debris. Power tools like drills and saws can make it fly around, increasing the risk of eye injuries. Safety glasses protect your eyes from particles. Since they have become inexpensive in recent years, there is no reason why every DIYer should not own a pair.
They also come in various styles and designs, including wraparound options for better protection, tinted glasses and anti-glare safety eyewear.Consider getting a few so you always know you always have one within reach.
Hearing Protection
Just like in any other construction zone, homes with ongoing renovation or remodelling projects can get very noisy depending on the tools the homeowner is using. Ear plugs provide a basic level of protection, but you should consider investing in earmuffs for maximum protection.
You should only buy this PPE from reputable retailers to ensure it meets the required standards. Remember, you should not work in environments with noise exceeding 85 dB without adequate protection, and only high-quality PPE provides this.
Breathing Protection
Masks and respirators protect your respiratory system from dust and debris. Disposable masks provide the lowest level of protection and are often adequate for most home improvement projects.
However, you should get a respirator mask if the environment is highly dusty or if there is a chance of encountering harmful gases and vapours. For example, you may be clearing a house to start a project before moving in and might not know what the homeowner stored in their garage or basement.
You should always check the filters you want to use alongside the respirator to ensure you use the right ones for the type of work you will be doing.
Gloves
Gloves are required for all projects, but they are especially important when working in the garage, on the gutters, or in the garage. These gloves should be hardy and provide enough grip under different circumstances.
If you will be cleaning using various chemicals, you should get nitrile gloves. These are perfect for working with different fluids and caustic liquids.
Work Boots
These come in various styles and protect you in different ways. They have steel toes that protect your feet from falling tools and midsole protection consisting of an aluminium or steel impact to protect against penetrating injuries.They are also slip-resistant, so you do not have to worry about slip and fall accidents.
Whether you are starting your first DIY project or have been doing this for some time, you should always ensure that you have proper personal protective equipment. It will save you from immediate injuries and the long-term dangers of inhaling dust and other particles.
