Remodeling a home is dangerous work. It’s physically demanding and requires serious focus so that no accidents occur on site. Although not all problems are always avoidable, in most cases, contractors can stop some of the more dangerous and fatal incidents from happening. Here are some safety precautions to practice when remodeling a home to ensure that the workers and surrounding people remain protected.
Consider Ventilation
It gets dusty on a work site. It’s unavoidable, meaning there needs to be suitable ventilation on the site at all times. However, you don’t want harmful particles to spread through the HVAC system. So close the air vents and replace the filters. Shut off the HVAC system so that the dust and debris collected on the site do not make their way into the system.
Closing off the vents ensures there’s no further circulation of the potentially harmful particles on the site. The site still needs constant airflow, though, so consider installing a couple of fans to keep clear air coming in. Position the fan so that it can blow air out of the window to create a slight vacuum.
Clear the Site
Never leave tools or other materials lying around the site. It needs to remain clear at all times. That includes before, during, and after the work. Sweep up any dust or debris that lingers on the site and keep the materials in a designated area.
Having an unclear site makes it unsafe for workers to operate dangerous tools. For example, walking with drywall stilts requires an open safe to decrease the risk of fatal accidents. Avoid loose boards and hanging nails too.
Wear Protective Gear
Protective gear is always necessary. Even in areas on the site where no work happens, you must keep your hard hat on. Accidents happen when you least expect them. If there’s a significant distance between the workers and the break areas, then designate a new break area closer.
Use hard hats, protective eyewear, earplugs, and non-conductive clothing, depending on the task. The earplugs should protect you from loud noises. But still remain cognitive of your surroundings so that you’re aware of any new developments on the site.
Constantly Communicate
And that brings us to our last point. Communication is key. There needs to be a constant flow on the site so that everyone stays on the same page. Vocalize any new developments and issues with the work progress.
Accidents happen due to a lack of awareness and communication. Keep bulletins up on the site because the noise of machinery may prevent workers from hearing updates. Voice morning announcements and reminders, and make sure civilians wear hard hats on the site too.
These safety precautions to practice when remodeling a home remove the possibilities of dangers, but they also help ensure the project goes over smoothly.
