Diy can be both challenging and rewarding. It can also be dangerous if care is not taken.
Whether you are an experienced enthusiast or a reluctant part-timer, taking a few minutes to plan what's to be done could mean the difference between tackling a job safely and successfully or courting disaster.
Every year 70 people are killed carrying out do-it-yourself work and 250,000 are injured - many seriously. That is why we have produced this guide containing safety advice on a wide range of topics from the correct positioning of ladders to protection from electric shocks, and do's and don'ts when hiring power tools and equipment.
In case the worst does happen, there is also first aid advice. Most of these accidents need never happen and are simply due to either carelessness or lack of knowledge.
Ten minutes reading the following chapters now could save you from having a nasty accident, so please read them and help keep yourself and your family safe.
The most dangerous piece of DIY equipment? |
| Don't be a DIY disaster | Steps and tips to make sure you are prepared for the unexpected. |
| Before you start | Safety advice about planning and preperation. |
| Electricity | Learn what you can do to make working with electricity safer. |
| Gas alert | How to use and store liquefied petroleum gas cylinders. |
| Rungs to success | Safety information when using ladders and steps. |
| Buying and hiring | What to know before buying or hiring tools. |
| Gardening without tears | How to stay safe in the garden and use equipment safely |
| If there is an accident | Basic first aid help in case of an accident. |
| Lead free | Guide to using solder in pipework installations and repairs. |
| Lead paint removal | How to remove lead paint safely |
| Smoke alarms | Know the facts about smoke alarms |
| Smoke alarm leaflet [PDF 360 KB]  |
You'll find all the information you need on buying, installing and looking after smoke alarms in this leaflet. |
| Tips for keeping warm | Learn how to stay warm and reduce bills |