Safety Guidelines Cheat Sheet

PPE selection, ladder safety, and hazard awareness for DIY projects. Protects you and others while working on home improvements.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Eye Protection

  • Safety Glasses: General work, impact protection
  • Safety Goggles: Dust, chemical splash protection
  • Face Shield: Heavy grinding, cutting, chemical work

Hearing Protection

  • Earplugs: 85+ dB, power tools
  • Earmuffs: 100+ dB, loud machinery
  • Both: 110+ dB, extreme noise

Respiratory Protection

  • Dust Mask: Nuisance dust, sanding
  • N95 Respirator: Fine dust, mold
  • P100 Respirator: Lead, asbestos (with cartridges)
  • Organic Vapor: Paint, solvents, chemicals

Hand Protection

  • Work Gloves: General protection, handling materials
  • Cut-Resistant: Sharp materials, cutting operations
  • Chemical: Nitrile, neoprene for chemicals
  • Never: While operating power tools (catch hazard)

Foot Protection

  • Steel Toe: Heavy materials, demolition
  • Work Boots: General construction, ankle support
  • Slip-Resistant: Wet conditions
Ladder Safety

Setup

  • Place on firm, level surface
  • 1:4 ratio (1 foot out for every 4 feet up)
  • Extend 3 feet above roof line
  • Secure top and bottom
  • Face ladder when climbing

Usage

  • Maintain 3 points of contact
  • Never stand on top 3 rungs
  • Don't overreach - move ladder
  • Check weight rating
  • Inspect before each use
Electrical Safety
  • Turn off power at breaker before working
  • Test with voltage tester before touching
  • Use GFCI outlets in wet areas
  • Keep cords away from water
  • Inspect cords for damage
  • Don't overload outlets or extension cords
  • Use properly rated extension cords
  • Never bypass ground pin (3-prong)
  • Call electrician if unsure
Chemical & Material Hazards

Lead Paint (Pre-1978 homes)

  • Test before disturbing
  • Use HEPA vacuum and wet methods
  • Wear P100 respirator
  • Contain work area
  • Dispose properly

Asbestos

  • Common in old insulation, tiles, siding
  • Don't disturb - hire professional
  • Test before renovation
  • Never sand, saw, or break

Treated Lumber

  • Wear gloves when handling
  • Dust mask when cutting
  • Wash hands before eating
  • Don't burn scraps
Fire Safety
  • Keep fire extinguisher accessible (ABC rated)
  • Clear work area of flammable materials
  • Ventilate when using flammable products
  • Store flammables in proper containers
  • No smoking around flammable materials
  • Dispose of oil-soaked rags properly (spontaneous combustion risk)
  • Keep propane tanks outside and secured
  • Have smoke/CO detectors in working areas
First Aid Basics

Keep Stocked First Aid Kit

  • Bandages (various sizes)
  • Gauze pads and tape
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Burn cream
  • Eye wash
  • Tweezers
  • Scissors
  • Instant cold pack

Emergency Response

  • Call 911 for serious injuries
  • Know location of nearest hospital
  • Keep phone charged and accessible
  • Have emergency contacts posted
General Safety Rules
  • Never work alone on dangerous tasks
  • Keep work area clean and organized
  • Ensure adequate lighting
  • Take breaks when tired
  • Don't rush - work safely
  • Know your limits - hire professionals when needed
  • Read and follow tool manuals
  • Keep children and pets away from work areas
  • Secure loose clothing and tie back long hair
  • If it feels unsafe, stop and reassess

Additional Information

About This Safety Guidelines Guide

This comprehensive safety guidelines cheat sheet provides essential information for protecting yourself during DIY projects and home improvement work. From personal protective equipment (PPE) selection to ladder safety and hazardous material handling, this guide covers the critical safety practices that prevent injuries and health problems.

DIY work involves real risks - power tools, heights, electrical hazards, chemicals, and more. Most injuries are preventable with proper precautions and equipment. This reference covers PPE selection for different hazards, proper ladder setup and use, electrical safety protocols, fire prevention, and how to handle lead paint and asbestos in older homes.

Safety isn't just about avoiding catastrophic injuries - it also means protecting your hearing from power tools, your lungs from dust and chemicals, and your long-term health from hazardous materials. Taking safety seriously allows you to enjoy DIY work for years to come without paying the price with your health.

Why Use This Safety Reference Guide?

Having quick access to safety guidelines helps protect you from injuries and long-term health effects. This guide provides the specific information you need to work safely in different situations.

  • Select appropriate PPE for eye, hearing, respiratory, and hand protection
  • Set up and use ladders safely to prevent falls
  • Follow electrical safety protocols that prevent shock and fire
  • Identify and safely handle lead paint, asbestos, and treated lumber
  • Prevent fires and know how to respond to emergencies
  • Maintain a stocked first aid kit and know when to call for help
Frequently Asked Questions

Free Safety Cheat Sheet - Simple PPE, Protocols & First Aid Guide | DIYProject.ai