Today’s generation of power tools are stronger, more durable and more powerful than ever before. Much of the do-it-yourself (DIY) crowd are unaware just how amazing modern-day power tools really are, particularly if you’re just getting involved in the DIY trend. With the paucity of knowledge, you tend to make plenty of mistakes, especially safety ones. And this can be expected when you’re starting out.
Safety is crucial in both the handling of power tools as well as DIY endeavours. If you’re not wearing the proper attire or paying close attention to what you’re doing, you’ll suffer the consequences. And the manufacturers of these power tools don’t want that to happen. You may be wondering what exactly you should be doing. It’s simple: just be safe.
Well, here are five safety tips for using power tools on DIY projects:
1. Read the Instructions First
Of course, the very first time you use your power tools after purchasing it and taking it out of the box, it is essential to read the instructions first.
Yes, yes, we all know that you hate reading instructions. You learn best by doing. But is this really an adequate way to treat your power tools? No.
By reading the instructions before using the power tools, you ensure you have the knowledge to properly utilize and correctly employ the machinery.
2. Protect Yourself with Goggles & Gloves
Sure, goggles and gloves may not help you look cool during a DIY project. But does that matter?
Wearing goggles and gloves is essential to not only completing a job, it’s also a way to protect yourself from potential harm. Your eyes and your hands are important to protect. So, you should never place them in any harm, even if you think there is very little risk.
3. Take a Closer Look at Your Tools
Inspection is critical for power tools. A worn-down part, a broken cord, a scratched surface. Whatever the case may be, inspecting your power tools before every use and after every use will allow to be safe – you can also remedy any potential discrepancy with the tools.
Remember, if you see something wrong, don’t try to use it. Just fix it or replace it.
4. Ensure There’s Enough Lighting
One of the worst things you can do when trying to get a job done, either in the basement or in the washroom, is not having enough light. Don’t let this happen.
For ever DIY project, even if it is outdoors, you must make sure that there is enough lighting. When you have an abundance of light, you can confirm figures, shield yourself from potential injuries and keep a better eye on the power tools.
Do what you have to do: bring a flash light, shine more light on the task, open all the windows.
5. Remove Any Clutter in the Area
A common mistake that DIYers make is having too much clutter in the immediate vicinity. This is hazardous because you can easily trip over and injure yourself.
Should you compile too much junk during the task, take a couple of moments from what you’re doing and clean it up and organize the worksite. By doing this, you will have a clutter-free environment and you can be rest assured that you won’t get up and fall back down.
Power tools are quite impressive today. Whether they are wireless or have caught up with digital technology, power tools can pretty much do anything. Indeed, like every other piece of equipment that has become advanced, it is potentially more dangerous as well. By incorporating the necessary protocols into your DIY project, like wearing protective gear, inspecting the power tools and always keep an eye on the task at hand, you don’t have to endure the wrath of this machinery.