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Home
Safety: DIY Safety
Here's
what may be the best tip of all—pay attention to what you are
doing. Work deliberately and thoughtfully, considering always
the possible reaction to your action!
Ladders
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The
distance from the base of the wall to the base of the ladder
should be 1/4 the height of the ladder. Most ladders have a
graphic on the side to help you determine if the ladder is set
at the proper angle.
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Make
sure the ladder's footpads are secure on the ground. Shim them
if necessary.
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Test
the ladder to be sure it will not shift. If necessary, tie it
off to keep it in place.
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Keep
all ladders—especially metal ladders—away from electrical lines
and pay attention to overhead lines when moving an extended
ladder into position.
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Never
attempt to stretch while on a ladder. If you can't reach, move
the ladder.
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Only
use a ladder that is in good condition.
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No
one under 14 should operate a power mower.
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Don't
give children rides on a mower. In fact, it's best to keep kids
entirely out of the area while the lawn is being mowed.
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Wear
sturdy shoes.
-
Wear
eye and ear protection. Add a dust mask if you have allergies.
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Keep
an eagle eye out for any debris that could be picked up and
thrown by the blade.
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Never
use your hand to dislodge an object caught in the blade, even
if the engine is off and the sparkplug is pulled. That's
because the blade may be under tension and will spring forward
when the blockage is removed.
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Always
refuel outdoors, not in a garage or shed. Allow the engine to
cool before refueling.
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When
mowing slopes, mow side to side with walk-behind mowers, go
up and down the slope with a riding mower.
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Avoid
mowing steep slopes—plant groundcovers instead!
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Always
wear safety glasses when using any power tool. Wear safety
glasses when using a hammer or drill.
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Always
follow the manufacturer's recommendations for using their
tools and materials.
-
Dull
tools are unsafe and can harm the work. Maintain your tools.
Always work with sharp cutting blades.
-
Unplug
power tools before loading them, changing blades or bits,
or making adjustments.
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Never
use any power tool in the rain.
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Never
alter or remove the blade guard on a power saw.
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Always
wear proper clothing and safety equipment on the work site.
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Keep
children and pets away from the work area and power tools,
as well as away from harmful materials, adhesives, and solvents.
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Keep
a clean work site and don't let debris accumulate.
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