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Safety is of prime importance to the Home Handy Person so therefore I`m going to continue this week with a few more safety tips.
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Electrical Cables
No matter how long your extension cable is, always unroll it fully before use. Using the cable when it`s rolled on a cable drum or in a coil on the floor can cause it to heat up and possibly start to burn. If the cable is too long for the job you are doing simply unroll it and lay it on the floor in lines, or use a shorter cable.
When using electrical appliances in damp conditions, particularly outdoors, always use a safety device such as a RCD. This will pick up any faults and switch the power off before you come to harm. I use one all the time whether in damp conditions or not. Have a look at the range at your local Mitre 10 store.
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Paint Strippers
Fast acting paint strippers usually contain a chemical substance that is not only highly inflammable but also gives off vapour that can cause harm if inhaled over a period of time. Also if you think about it, a chemical that removes paint can`t be very good if it gets on your skin or in your eyes. It`s very important to follow the instructions on the container when using any harsh chemical. It`s also important to have protective clothing available to wear when using chemicals such as paint strippers. My recommendation includes: a long sleeved work shirt and trousers or coveralls, goggles or safety glasses with side pieces, chemical resistant gloves, a respirator and of course work shoes. Always work in well ventilated areas, or outdoors if possible.
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Self Combustion
Rags that have been used when working with vegetable oils such as linseed may self combust if they are thrown away whilst still wet and crushed up. Make sure that you dry rags out completely before either getting rid of them or storing. The best thing to do is peg them on your washing line to dry, making sure of course they are well away from pets, children and the family washing.
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First Aid
Keep a first aid kit in your workshop. If nothing else it will save you dripping through the house as you rush to the bathroom! First aid kits these days are readily available and contain all the bits and pieces you will need for those minor accidents that happen in the workshop. Make sure that the one you get has a bottle of eye wash included. Quick action in irrigating an eye when foreign objects or liquids are involved may save your sight. No matter how good your kit is always contact your healthcare provider for serious injuries.
It would take a dozen or more columns to give you a comprehensive list of safety tips but most of them can be covered with the following general rules: |
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Read the safety instructions for any product before use. |
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Be familiar with any device you operate. |
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Use commonsense, if you are not sure, ask or don`t do it. |
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Use protective clothing. Do not work in a cluttered area. |
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Only work with power tools if you can pay 100% attention to the job, no distractions. |
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Don`t rush, take your time! Patience is a virtue. |
Written by Chris Bennett. |
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Limitation of Liability
This project has been produced to provide basic information and our experienced staff are available either in-store, or via phone or email, to answer any questions you may have. As this information is generalised Mitre 10 is not responsible for the application of the principles in any particular case, as the contents of this project may need to be modified for the particular site and circumstances. Consumers should always ensure that they comply with any local body bylaws that pertain to any construction project and consult a qualified tradesperson where expert services are required. |
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