More and more people have started to do DIY projects. There are many growing reasons for this. The first is the cost. The construction industry is suffering economic problems, such as labor shortages and the cost of living. The second is satisfaction. Few things are as gratifying as building something with your own two hands. Finally, many believe they can do a better job themselves than if they hired somebody else.
However, there are risks to doing any work yourself. These risks are often magnified when working on a DIY project because you might not have all the necessary safety equipment or experience. Here are five of the most common injuries in DIY projects and how to treat them:
Cuts and Bruises
The most common injury that any DIYer might experience is a cut or a bruise. This is usually the result of using a power tool without proper safety gear or not being careful enough. The best way to avoid cuts and bruises is always to wear gloves, goggles, and long pants when working on a project. Additionally, you should continually update your tools and equipment. A rusty tool can be a lot more dangerous, and it can also lead to tetanus.
Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can enter the body through wounds. It causes muscle spasms and can be fatal in some cases. The best way to avoid tetanus is to ensure your tools are clean and up-to-date with their vaccinations.
If you get a cut or bruise, the best thing is to clean it with soap and water and then put a bandage on it. You might need stitches if the cut is more than a quarter inch deep. In that case, you should go to the hospital immediately.
Burns
Burns are another common injury, especially when working with power tools or open flames. Most often, people get it if they use welding tools. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when working with any heat source. Additionally, never leave a heat source unattended. Finally, be sure to have a fire extinguisher in case of an accident.
If you do experience a burn, the first thing you should do is cool the area with water for at least 10 minutes. You should then cover the area with a clean, dry cloth. Don’t put ice on the burn or use any ointments or cream. Finally, seek medical attention if the burn covers a significant part of your body or if it’s on your face or a major joint.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are another severe injury that can occur while working on a DIY project. This is usually the result of a fall or an accident with a power tool. Always wear protective gear and follow safety procedures when using any tools. Never work alone and always have someone nearby in case of an accident.
If you think you have broken a bone, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Don’t try to move the area or reduce the pain yourself.
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are common injuries that often occur when lifting heavy objects or using power tools. The best way to avoid these injuries is always to use proper lifting techniques and safety gear. The proper lifting technique is using your legs, not your back, to lift the object. You should also never try to lift something too heavy for you.
If you experience a sprain or strain, it’s essential to rest the area and ice it for at least 20 minutes. You might also need to wrap it with an elastic bandage. You should seek medical attention if the pain doesn’t go away after a few days.
Dental Injuries
Dental injuries are another common type of injury in DIY projects. There are many culprits for this. The first is hitting your jaw when using a power tool, and another reason is the improper use of tools.
The best way to avoid dental injuries is to wear proper safety gear, especially a mouth guard. In addition, if you lose a tooth, you must immediately get a tooth replacement service. By doing this, you can avoid infection and further tooth loss. Moreover, ensure to get your mouth checked if you’re experiencing gum bleeding the next day. It’s a sign of a more severe injury.
Working on a DIY project can be very rewarding. However, it’s essential always to take safety precautions to avoid injuries. If you get hurt, treating the injury immediately is necessary to prevent further damage.
