Before you pick up tools for your next project, review these seven tips on how to keep yourself safe.
- Keep work areas clean. Proper housekeeping alone can reduce work injuries.
- Use the proper tool for the job. Avoid the first impulse to use whatever tool (or object) is around you to get a work task done. Using the wrong tool for the job can result in an injury and damage to the tool.
- Always wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for the work task. The lack of PPE or the use of improper PPE leads to injuries in the workplace.
- Never work on live equipment. Working on energized equipment is an unsafe act that will result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Make sure chemicals are properly labeled and stored. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issues citations regarding hazard communication every year. Improper labeling and storage can lead to injuries or property loss due to fires, corrosion, etc.
- Communicate hazards to other personnel. Never assume that a coworker understands the hazards of a task, especially if they are new or new to the task.
- Stop work when needed to address hazards. Take the time to get hazards addressed to make it safe to continue your work.
