What is it that stirs a handyman? A carpenter, concentrating on a project, what aspect of the work causes consternation? While some might say a fair wage and an occasional bonus, they would sadly be wrong. In reality, it’s an all-encompassing safety margin that ranks above all other considerations. We protect our employees, which is why we equip our staff with safety equipment. Hard hats on, let’s see this gear in action.
Dressed for Success
In the office, a sharp haircut and a tailored suit help team members stay ahead. Out in the field, though, it’s a whole other matter. What an employee wears here doesn’t necessarily have to look good, but it must offer protection. For handymen and carpenters, a pair of sturdy gloves makes a good start. Keep splinters and abrasive injuries at bay by purchasing a high-quality pair of gloves. Incidentally, there are fingerless products on the market, which help handymen stay dexterous. Finally, add a high visibility jacket to the mix.
Protecting the Head
Next, add a pair of safety goggles and a hard hat to the dress code. The hard hat is there to stop scaffolding materials from causing a head injury, while the purpose of the safety goggles will become obvious when the worker uses power tools. Yes, sawdust blowback is an eye irritant. As for metal splinters and ricocheting rivets, well, eyesight damage is likely when these issues are not properly addressed. Furthermore, those airborne grains are not meant to be inhaled. Use a breathing mask to stop the sawdust.
Power Tool Safety
Face masks and ear defenders in place, the hard-working handyman goes about his duties. Next on the agenda, there are lengths of wood to cut. Guard the worker’s hands. The wood slides forward on a bench, touches a buzzsaw blade, and it separates smoothly. Safety rails and blade guards must function properly on every piece of equipment, as must the included safety emergency stop. It’s the same with nail guns and other portable power tools. The guards and safety features exist to retard industrial accidents. Use them, maintain their working parts, and remain vigilant.
Safety shoes and goggles are important. They’re worn with hard hats and high-visibility jackets to reinforce a site’s safety codes. Even if this is a handymen project, one run by a hobbyist, those safety practices need to be enforced at all times. For contractors, there are safety videos and continually updated classes. Handymen types need to apply the same level of seriousness when they’re doing carpentry work. Dress right, know the tools, and work smart.