There are some DIY projects that are small and others that are more significant; like fixing the paintwork and plaster on a wall or dealing with damp issues on the ceiling. It depends on the severity of the issue and how urgent it is as to what precautions need be taken before going ahead.

In this post, we look at ways of protecting yourself while getting involved in home projects on the weekend.

Small vs large projects

Small home improvements might include fixing a squeaky front door to your home that’s been slowly driving you crazy or adding a trim around the windows. In the back garden, fixing a lawnmower with a power cord issue by ordering a replacement part and resolving the problem is a good weekend task.

Larger projects with a bigger budget could be adding a counter-top over your vanity in the bathroom as part of a bathroom makeover project. These tend to be multi-day projects. And then there’s the whole room or entire house improvements with numerous stages that are carried out in stages.

Understanding the risks with different improvements

Some improvement projects are riskier than others and there are some that shouldn’t cause any concern at all.

It’s important to consider what you’ll be doing and whether it could potentially create a problem. For instance, the breaking up of building materials by demolishing wall structures or fixing a ceiling issue can dislodge older materials can result in material dust spewing out. Depending on the source materials, this dust can be dangerous to inhale.

Even working in the kitchen removing old stone or ceramic materials – replacing them could cause particulate dust to be released, which could be harmful to your health.

Ask yourself: what materials will you come into contact with during the renovations? This includes the original material within the structure; not just what you’ll be using to replace it.

Protecting yourself with major renovations

The larger the project, the greater the risk of coming into contact with old materials that create dust. Silica dust and other types can be seriously harmful to breathe in. Also, the danger isn’t always visible because the dust can be microscopic. This is partly why it can be so dangerous, with lung cancer being of great concern.

It’s important with any major improvement project to use a dust containment system to cover the part of the home being worked on. This avoids contaminating the rest of the home and protects all the occupants too. Containment systems like ones from Trimaco include plastic sheeting which can block off a side of a room or a complete enveloping system with a door that opens to move in and out safely. It also makes clean-up easier too.

Be sure to use a protective face mask and overalls to keep any dust from your mouth, nose and clothing being worn at the time. Also, for woodworking and other tasks that involve your hands, consider wearing thick gloves to protect your fingers. Once the project is complete, it’s a simple matter of removing the dust containment system safely.

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