Safety First Guide

Essential PPE requirements and safety practices for construction and DIY projects. Protect yourself before every project.

Before You Begin Any Project

Know your limits. Some tasks require professional training, licensing, or equipment.
Check local codes. Many projects require permits and inspections.
Call 811. Always call before you dig to locate underground utilities.
Have emergency supplies. First aid kit, fire extinguisher, and phone charged.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

🧠

Eye Protection

Safety glasses or goggles should be worn whenever:

Using power tools (sawing, drilling, grinding)
Working with concrete or mortar
Using chemicals (stains, solvents)
Working overhead or with debris

🧧

Hearing Protection

Earplugs or earmuffs required for:

Circular saws, miter saws, routers
Hammer drills and impact drivers
Compressors and air tools
Any prolonged exposure over 85 dB

🧞

Respiratory Protection

Dust masks or respirators for:

Sanding drywall or wood
Mixing concrete or mortar
Insulation work
Painting and staining (N95 minimum)

🧤

Hand Protection

Glove types by task:

Leather: General construction, handling lumber
Rubber/nitrile: Concrete, chemicals, stains
Cut-resistant: Handling sheet metal, glass
No gloves: Operating rotating tools

👟

Foot Protection

Work boots should have:

Steel or composite toe protection
Non-slip soles for ladder work
Ankle support for uneven ground
Puncture-resistant soles for jobsites

🧢

Head Protection

Hard hats required when:

Working below others
Near overhead hazards
Demolition work
On active construction sites

Material-Specific Safety

🧱 Concrete & Mortar

Chemical burns: Wet concrete is highly alkaline (pH 12-14) and causes serious burns. Wash skin immediately if contact occurs.
Eye protection: Cement dust and splashes can cause permanent eye damage.
Rubber boots: Never kneel in wet concrete. It seeps through fabric and causes burns.
Dust mask: Portland cement dust irritates airways. Use N95 minimum when mixing.

🎨 Paint & Coatings

Ventilation: Oil-based paints and stains require fresh air. Open windows and use fans.
Lead paint: Pre-1978 homes may have lead paint. Test before sanding. Certified removal required.
Fire hazards: Oil-soaked rags can spontaneously combust. Lay flat to dry or store in water.
Skin protection: Many solvents absorb through skin. Wear nitrile gloves.

🏠 Roofing Work

Fall protection: Falls from roofs cause thousands of fatalities yearly. Use harness, rope, and roof anchor for pitches over 4/12.
Heat exposure: Roofs can reach 150°F+ in summer. Hydrate frequently. Work early morning.
Ladder safety: 3-point contact always. Set ladder at 75° angle (1 ft out for every 4 ft up).
Weather: Never work on wet or icy roofs. Wait until fully dry.

🔌 Electrical Work

Turn off power: Always turn off breaker AND verify with a non-contact voltage tester.
Lockout/tagout: Lock breaker panel so no one can restore power while you work.
Permit required: Most electrical work requires permits and inspection. Know your local codes.
Hire licensed: Panel upgrades, new circuits, and service work should be done by licensed electricians.

Power Tool Safety Rules

1

Read the manual

Every tool is different. Know your specific tool's guards, adjustments, and limitations.
2

Inspect before use

Check cords, guards, blades, and bits. Never use damaged tools.
3

Secure your workpiece

Use clamps, vises, or a helper. Never hold material with one hand while cutting with the other.
4

Stay alert

Never use power tools when tired, distracted, or under the influence of any substance.
5

Dress appropriately

No loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair near rotating tools. They can catch and pull you in.
6

Keep guards in place

Guards exist for a reason. Never remove or disable safety features.
7

Disconnect before adjusting

Unplug or remove battery before changing blades, bits, or making adjustments.

First Aid Essentials

Every workshop and jobsite should have a first aid kit containing:

Adhesive bandages (various sizes)
Sterile gauze pads and tape
Elastic bandage wrap
Antiseptic wipes and ointment
Tweezers (for splinters)

Instant cold pack
Eye wash solution
Disposable gloves
Emergency contact numbers
Aspirin and pain relievers

Know when to call 911: Severe bleeding, electrical shock, falls from height, suspected broken bones, or any head injury requires professional medical attention.