Top 5 Essential Safety Gear for DIYers: 

Using the correct safety equipment is just as important as using the correct tools for a job. Most DIYers have no professional training and as such the risk of harm or injury is increased. We are not saying that every home project is dangerous but we do strongly recommend always edging on the side of caution, as you are better safe than sorry.  

Mistakes can and do happen so it is best to be prepared for them and help to reduce the effects of such mistakes happening by wearing your personal protective equipment. For a lot of jobs, the safety gear you use may not be called into action, but the few times the safety kit saves you from an accident or injury, makes it completely worth it. 

1. Safety Glasses/Goggles 

We recommend wearing safety glasses for most DIY projects as your eyes are very sensitive and susceptible to damage. They are absolutely essential for jobs including sanding, grinding and sawing where dust, wood and/or metal shavings are omitted. Safety glasses will also protect your eyes from paint drips, chemical spills and some small falling items. 

A lot of DIY jobs will have the unfortunate bi-product of creating debris and however big or small there is always the potential risk of it flying into your eye.  

If you are someone who wears glasses already then safety goggles will be more suitable for you as you can wear them over your glasses. 

Our recommendation: 3M 2840 Comfort Line Spectacles Clear Lens

Features:  

⭐Strong lens with anti-scratch and an anti-fog coating for excellent vision

⭐Lightweight 26g for maximum comfort during prolonged wear

⭐Soft inner padding on the temple to prevent irritation and marking

2. Safety Gloves 

During DIY projects our hands come in contact with everyone from tools to materials and as such are at the most risk. There are endless ways in which you can injury your hands including; cuts, chemical spills, splinters and other abrasions. That’s why it is imperative to protect your hands with a pair of safety gloves. 

For light DIY tasks and general home working we suggest a pair of lightweight, flexible and unrestrictive gloves. However, for more precarious or dangerous jobs and/or moving sharp/spiky items then a pair of thick, heavy-duty gloves will also be necessary. 

Our recommendation: Polyco 9114 PolyFlex Ultra Palm-side Coated Red/Black Gloves

Features: 

⭐Durable materials deliver excellent strength and abrasion protection

⭐Flexible coating ensures ultimate comfort during long periods of wear

⭐Seamless knitted liner prevents skin irritation

3. Dust Mask 

With DIY renovation you could become exposed to hazardous particles, toxic fumes and dust. Inhaling substances like asbestos, fibreglass and mould can have a serious detrimental effect on your health. Other substances like saw dust and everyday chemicals may not seem dangerous on the face of it however prolonged exposure to and inhalation of these can also have a negative impact on your health. 

For the general DIYer we would recommend a reusable face mask over disposable masks, however for any work with highly hazardous materials then you should buy a respirator or a full-face mask as the extra protection is justified. 

Our recommendation: 3M Respirator Mask Half Face 4251 

Features: 

⭐Two large bonded carbon filters for low breathing resistance 

⭐Lightweight and well-balanced design for user comfort 

⭐Exhalation valve centrally positioned for effective removal of heat and moisture 

4. Knee pads 

You will be surprised by just how many jobs require you to be on your knees for long periods of time; laying new flooring, installing loft insulation and installing a new sink to name just a few. 

Constant kneeling can be very painful and can do real damage to your joints, this is where a good pair of knee pads are indispensable. Save yourself the inconvenience and effort of moving a mat around with you as you work and instead simply wear a pair of knee pads.

Our recommendation: Kennedy Black Foam Knee Pads 

Features: 

⭐Quick release hook-n-loop fastening 

⭐Non-marring face protects surfaces and non-skid material helps avoid slipping 

⭐Lightweight design for comfort when standing 

5. Ear defenders 

The noise pollution from regular use of power tools and/or machinery can have a negative impact on your hearing. For light, mainly aesthetic DIY projects it is unlikely you will need ear defenders but for bigger renovation jobs they will be a must to cancel out loud sounds and protect your ears. 

They are also handy to cancel out those annoying sounds that so often accompany power tools and machinery, complete DIY tasks in relative peace with a pair of ear defenders. 

Our recommendation: 3M Peltor Headband Ear Defenders 

Features: 

⭐Balanced twin headband design for user comfort 

⭐Patented design creates an effective deal and protection 

⭐Spacious inner cup for easy dispersal of moisture and heat 

Honorary Mention: 

Our honorary mention is a pair of Work Boots, when carrying round or working with heavy materials it is always a good idea to protect your feet. It is easy to lose grip and drop items or not look where you are going and step on something sharp, wearing suitable shoes/boots can greatly reduce the pain of these mistakes and mishaps. 

Work boots with Steel or Composite toes caps are our recommendation as they offer added protection for where you need it the most. 

Looking for more DIY essentials give our blogs on Top 10 Essential Tools for DIYers, Top 10 Essential Gardening Tools UK 2022 and Top 5 Essential Gardening Power Tools UK 2022 a read.

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