The number one rule for all Home Handy people is: safety first!

I learned a valuable lesson some time ago regarding safety goggles and the need for them even if you wear prescription eye glasses. It was my opinion that because I wear prescription glasses there was no need to put on an extra pair of goggles. That was until a tiny piece of metal flew into my eye from the side. I now wear goggles with side pieces over my ordinary glasses!

It`s most important that you have a set of safety or protective wear ready to use, even for those `quick` jobs.

Eye Protection

A pair of safety goggles with side shields are necessary for jobs like grinding, sanding or working with chemicals.   In fact anywhere there is a possibility of small particles, dust or chemical splashes getting into your eyes.

Dust Masks or Respirators

For jobs where lots of dust is being created, for example sanding a piece of timber, normal disposable dust masks are ideal. However these are no use for chemical fumes or toxic dust. For those jobs you need to use specialist masks. Even when using specialised respirators you have to be careful to use the correct filter for the job. My advice is to call in at your local Mitre 10 store and spend some time checking out the range of masks and filters available, you will be surprised.

Ear Protectors

When I was a young bloke it was not considered a `manly` thing to wear ear protectors when using noisy machinery. How stupid! We`ve come a long way since then and all sensible people use ear protectors whenever operating machinery. My advice when buying ear protectors is to check the noise protection they are offering. You will often find that the cheap units have very little in the way of protective value. Once again have a look at the range available and ask questions.

Head Protection

Use a hat to keep long hair away from rotating machinery. Use a hard hat if you`re in an area where something heavy is at risk from falling on your head.
 

Footwear

Always wear sturdy footwear when working. Dropping a tool or something sharp on feet clad in sandals is not a pleasant experience. Dress to work!
 

Fire Extinguisher

Another tool of protection that is so often overlooked is a fire extinguisher. Every home and workshop should have at least one fire extinguisher. The type best suited for the workshop is one that will handle most types of fires including liquids, electrical and solid fuels like wood and paper. All you have to do to get the correct one is to read the information on the extinguisher. Units are available from a simple disposable aerosol right the way through to rechargeable extinguishers. If in doubt, ask at your local fire station for advice. Also don`t forget to install a smoke detector in your workshop as well as in your home.

Be a safe, happy handy worker!

Written by Chris Bennett