As the summer approaches, more people will want to do some DIY work around the house and garden. The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) and the Hertfordshire Accident Prevention Group (HAPG) are concerned for those people who are either DIY fanatics or simply part-time users of power tools.

“It’s as safe as houses”……BUT statistics have shown that every year a toll of 70 people are killed carrying out DIY work and over 250,000 people are seriously injured. With this in mind it seems that Doing It Yourself is the hidden danger.

The hiring and buying of power tools is increasing but unfortunately safe working practices are not. It’s worth remembering that if you are hiring, the shop must explain how to use the equipment and provide full instructions for use. And having the correct safety equipment such as goggles, ear defenders and toe protector boots is paramount.

Check the equipment you are hiring has been tested and serviced – there is usually a label to confirm the date when this last happened. Do not accept anything in bad condition. Also make sure that safety catches are on the equipment and use power tools that are appropriate for the job and your experience. Hiring a professional when using things like chain saws is often a better alternative than trying to do it yourself.

Research shows that some people underestimate DIY dangers and others do not have adequate knowledge. Many people therefore put themselves at risk when doing DIY.

The chair of HAPG ………………….,says “With these statistics and attitudes towards DIY we are trying to promote safety equipment being sold in conjunction with power tools as well as promoting safe and sensible use of tools”.

Issued on behalf of Hertfordshire Accident Prevention Group ………………………