L2A1: DIY Dangers

Worksites aren’t the only dangerous place about. In fact, any place you’re doing work, is in fact a work site – and yes that means at home as well! So, if you’re doing DIY work, what’s the best way to keep yourself safe whilst you’re working? Well, we have some handy tips to help keep you safe.

Remember – Safety is EVERYONE'S Responsibility

And that definitely includes you! Just because you’re working on your home with a mate who’s decided to come help you put up some shelves, that doesn’t mean you get to ignore standard safety procedures. And that includes keeping your workspace clear, free of tripping hazards, and safe for everyone who is working there.

DON’T take shortcuts

Seriously. Don’t. Shortcuts can be anything from reaching over things in awkward ways to grab something that you left *just* there, or climbing on items that you shouldn’t because it’s easier than grabbing a ladder, or even using household items in ways they weren’t intended. You know better, you wouldn't do it at work because it’s dangerous. It’s just as dangerous at home. And, for your sparky, that includes isolating power, and testing before you touch.

Read the instructions

If there are any instructions, read them. You’d read them at work, so make sure you read them at home too. Not only may it save you time in the long run (who hasn’t had one piece left over and spent hours wondering where it goes?) but it might also give you very specific information on how to safely operate or install whatever it is you’re installing

Don’t do anything you’re not qualified for

If you cant sign it off, don’t do it. Just because it’s your home and you think you’ll save a buck or two, in the long run it may fail and cause damage, or even worse. Always get a licenced professional to do what they need to do – it’ll save you headaches in the long run.

So there you have it. A few ways to stay safe when you’re working at home this March, getting your home ready for a cozy winter.