Safety Tips for a Home Workshop

Nothing beats having a workshop at home. Whether you’re into DIY projects or just need a place to do those quick fix-it jobs, an at home workshop can be an invaluable asset.

But it’s important to remember some basic safety guidelines if you decide to build a workshop at home.

Accidents happen, but you can greatly reduce their likelihood by following some simple rules for safety. Here are four basic tips for keeping your workshop safe.

1.) Protective Gear-

Always wear the right gear to protect yourself in the workshop. Flying metal fragments and wooden splinters can damage eyes and affect your vision for the rest of your life. Wearing gloves gives your hands and fingers some added protection from cuts and scrapes.

Simple long-sleeved work shirts and pants can do the same for your arms and legs. And remember to protect those toes with properly rated work boots.

And don’t forget ear protection if you're using very loud power tools. Remember, hearing loss is cumulative.

2. Keep It Clean-

Workshops can get cluttered quickly. Accumulated sawdust, oil and chemical spills, and loose power tool cords and equipment left adrift in walkways can be dangerous tripping hazards.

Make sure oily rags and any other flammable debris gets collected and disposed of in a safe manner. Keep tools stowed safely away when not in use.

3. Fire Safety-

It’s imperative to keep fire safety at the forefront of your mind when you are at work in the shop. Keep flammable liquids like fuels, oils, paints, and lacquers stored in a fireproof cabinet.

Make sure sparks from metal work are not impacting flammable materials like sawdust or oily rags. Make sure your workspace is clear of flammable material when you use heat guns or other hot tools.

And always keep a working and regularly checked fire extinguisher readily available.

4. First Aid Kit-

High quality first aid kits are available for purchase at your local pharmacies and many other stores. Keep one handy and clearly visible in your workshop so if you do have an accident, you can quickly apply at least basic first aid.

It’s also a good idea to keep your cell phone handy and 911 on speed dial, just in case. You can never play it too safe.

These are just four simple rules to make sure your workshop experience is a good one. Always be looking out for ways to make your shop a safer environment for you and your loved ones.