Note: this is a guest post and consideration was received for its publication. photo: CC-licensed image by Susan Serra

Access equipment suppliers Globe Ladders know a thing or two about safety and eliminating risk when it comes to tackling large scale DIY jobs, and the task of redesigning the kitchen is as large as domestic projects come. The kitchen is one of the most central and widely used rooms in the home and giving it a new lease of life can be a rewarding experience, but it isn’t without its dangers. A kitchen can pose endless hazards - make sure you’re prepared for them with the right tools, a good deal of forward planning and proper safety equipment.

Get to know your tools

Even if you have used tools on a previous project, you will find the kitchen to be an entirely different kettle of fish. Make sure you know how to use them in this new context by consulting the official manuals and ask friends or relatives for assistance. A kitchen remodelling involves everything from the cabinets and tiles to the lights and flooring so ensure you are confident with your tools before putting your project and yourself at risk.

Create a safe environment

There are so many hazards involved with redecorating from wires and loose floorboards to slippery surfaces. Avoid catastrophe from the get go by creating a safe working environment. Cordon off all entrances to the kitchen and lay down old sheets on the floor and on the kitchen work surfaces if necessary. If you’re going to be removing or redecorating overhead cabinets, you’ll need non-slip material to provide a sturdy, even surface. Also keep all tools out of sight to protect others, particularly small children, from injury.

Know your psychical limits

With any big scale home project, it is vital to know your own limits, both for yourself and for the safety of others. Never try and push yourself too hard get the job completed as this is when accidents start to happen. Over-estimating how much you can lift for example is only going to induce back injury so make sure assistance is on hand. Also, never attempt to work or operate any kind of machinery (even the smallest tools) when tired.

Knowledge can be half the battle when it comes to DIY projects so it could be worth looking into further guidance on health and safety in the home. As well as making and supplying safety equipment, Globe Ladders provides training courses which can result in a certificate stating your capacity and understanding of essential safety awareness.