
The Importance of Safety in DIY
DIY is a rewarding activity that allows you to unleash your creativity and make home improvements. However, it also carries certain risks if proper safety precautions are not taken.
As a DIY specialist with years of experience at Leroy Merlin, I've seen it all. From superficial cuts to accidents that could have been avoided with a little caution and the right equipment. In this article, we'll delve into the essential aspects of DIY. DIY safety, covering everything from personal protective equipment to best practices for preventing accidents.
DIY Safety: Essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Goggles
One of the most important elements in the personal protective equipment These are safety glasses. When you're working with power tools or handling materials like wood or metal, it's essential to protect your eyes from debris and dust.
- Polycarbonate crystal
- Suitable for glasses wearers
- With ventilation holes for fog-free vision

- Types of glasses: There are glasses with side protection and anti-scratch treatment that offer clear and long-lasting vision.
- Usage tips: Make sure the glasses fit snugly against your face to prevent any particles from entering.
Protective Gloves
Gloves are essential to protect your hands from cuts, burns, and chemicals.
- ANSELL HYFLEX 11-840 PROTECTIVE GLOVES are coated with nitrile foam, which provides 20% more breathability.
- ANSELL FORTIX ABRASION RESISTANCE TECHNOLOGY – Offering high EN 4 abrasion resistance, this work glove…
- PERFECT FIT – like a SECOND SKIN, it adapts to the palm of your hand and provides MORE COMFORT AND tactile sensitivity…

- Materials: You can find gloves made of leather, rubber, or synthetic material, each suitable for different types of work.
- Proper use: Choose the correct size so they don't slip and allow you to manipulate the tools precisely.
Masks and Respirators
When working in environments with dust, fumes, or chemicals, a protective mask is essential.
- 👍 ERGONOMIC DESIGN – Made of food-grade silicone, it provides maximum comfort without excessive pressure.
- 📦 PACKAGE CONTENTS – This set includes 1 RH-RS101 mask, 2 FFP2 cotton filters, 2 organic gas cartridges…
- ✅ VERSATILE – Applicable to a multitude of work sectors such as spray painting, phytosanitary products, protection against…

- Types of masksFrom disposable masks to respirators with replaceable filters, choose based on the intensity of your work.
- Usage tips: Make sure the mask fits properly and change the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Hearing Protection
The noise from tools like drills or saws can damage your hearing over time. Use hearing protectors to muffle the noise.
- Soundproof Headphones: The ergonomic headband with soft padding reduces pressure on your head and provides…
- Hearing protectors made with solid BDS housing and thick sound-absorbing foam have an NRR of 28 dB
- The adjustable headband and 360° rotating earcups with comfortable foam can be adjusted to fit all sizes, from…
- Types of protectors: Soundproofing headphones or earplugs are effective options.
- Usage tips: Check that the protectors do not completely block ambient sound to maintain communication and safety in the work area.
Safety Helmet
A helmet is vital for jobs where there is a risk of head impacts, especially at heights.
- SOLID & DURABLE: We use high-quality, impact-resistant ABS material to manufacture the helmet, ensuring…
- VENTILATION DESIGN: The "H" shape on the top of the head ensures your comfort while working. The 8 holes…
- VERSATILE SLOTS: Slots on both sides allow you to easily carry a protective mask, a…

- Features: Look for helmets with good ventilation and adjustable straps.
- Usage tips: Make sure your helmet is properly fitted and check its condition periodically to avoid cracks or damage.
Best Practices for Accident Prevention
Planning and Organization
Before starting any DIY project, it is essential to plan the project at every step.
- Bill of materials: Make a list of all the materials and tools you will need.
- Work area: Keep your work area clean and tidy to avoid trips and falls.
Tool Inspection
Before using any tool, check its condition.
- Power Tool Review: Make sure the cables are not damaged and that the tools are working properly.
- Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance to extend the life of your tools and keep them safe.
Training and Knowledge
Knowing how each tool works and its features is crucial.
- Manufacturer's instructions: Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Courses and workshops: Participate in training courses to learn new techniques and improve your skills.
Specific Tips for Common DIY Jobs
Carpentry
Carpentry is one of the most common DIY activities, but also one of the most risky.
- Use of saws: Always use push sticks and saw guards to keep your hands away from the blade.
- Dust protectionIn addition to goggles and masks, consider using dust extractors to keep the area clean.
Electricity
Working with electricity requires extra caution due to the risk of electric shock.
- Power disconnection: Before starting any electrical work, make sure the power is off.
- Insulated tools: Use properly insulated tools to avoid shocks.
Painting and Varnishing
These activities may seem harmless, but they involve exposure to chemicals and fumes.
- Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas and wear appropriate masks.
- Skin care: Wear gloves and protective clothing to avoid direct contact with the products.
Conclusion: DIY Safety is a Priority
DIY can be a very rewarding activity, but we should never underestimate the risks involved. With proper preparation, the use of personal protective equipment and adopting safe practices, we can enjoy our projects without endangering our health.
From my years of experience at Leroy Merlin, I can say that the prevention and safety in DIY, as well as a correct project planningNot only does it protect your well-being, it also guarantees better results in your work. So go ahead, plan well, protect yourself, and enjoy creating!