by Gail Bertram

Created on: December 20, 2008   Last Updated: January 01, 2011

With the global economy in the depths of recession and every family trying to tighten their belts, many people are turning to D.I.Y. If done properly, with the correct skills and tools for the job, doing it yourself can save a significant amount of money. However, not all costs are measured financially, and thousands of people are seriously injured or killed because of D.I.Y related accidents, particularly when power tools are involved.

So how can you save money and stay safe?

Before You Begin

Read the manual. These instructions will tell you everything you need to know about operating and maintaining your power tools, and will help you to prolong the working life of these expensive pieces of equipment.

Be sure that the tool you are using is right for the job at hand. If grinding or cutting, make sure the correct blade is installed. If using a drill, double-check that you have removed the chuck key from its socket before use. Turning on a drill with a chuck key still in place can lead to serious or fatal impalement injuries.

Use appropriate safety gear. With some power tools, such as chainsaws, protective goggles and ear defenders are essential to protect yourself and anyone nearby from long-term hearing problems and flying debris.

Tuck in any loose clothing such as ties, shirt tails and loose cuffs. If you have long hair make sure it is tied well back from your face. Spinning mechanisms in tools such as drills can ensnare fabric or hair, leading to serious bodily harm.

During the Job

When you pause during a job, make sure your power tools are switched off at the wall. This will prevent accidental activation which could lead to serious injury, either to yourself or inquisitive children.

Before setting your power tools down or making any adjustments, make sure the moving parts have come to a complete stop and switch it off at the wall. This will prevent it being activated while you are making adjustments.

If you are working in your home, make sure that others know that you are using power tools, check that cables are not trailed across the floor and do not present a tripping hazard. Provide good lighting in your work area and keep it tidy.

Always follow good practice when using your tools. Be aware of cutting through or drilling into pipes and wiring, clamp down loose objects that you are working on, and always mark clearly where you plan to cut or drill.

Electrical Safety

Make sure that you have checked all the power cables, extension leads, plugs and sockets for damage and that any fuse equipment is operational. This will help prevent any electrical hazards.

When working outside, remember that electrical power tools should never be used in wet conditions. Water conducts electrical current, and a malfunction could result in not only the user, but anyone else in the surrounding area suffering an electric shock.

Both careful preparation and conscientious working technique allow you to carry out your DIY work quickly, while making sure that the safety of yourself and your family remains paramount.

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