Woodwork is such a very fulfilling and tiring activity, whether
it is a part of the job or just a personal hobby. It requires a lot of skill,
patience and hard work that one can only get through experience. With a task
that requires a lot of lifting from small wooden boards up to the big and heavy
decking boards, cutting and use of machineries, it
sure can get messy and dangerous at times. To avoid accidents, here are some
tips that can help you avoid being caught in these gruesome situations.
WHAT TO WEAR
Leave the designer clothes inside the closet because there is
no place for those in woodworking. Safety is always the priority in woodwork
since a simple mistake may lead to an accident. Woodwork must be taken
seriously and one must always dress to the “occasion.”
Before beginning the woodworking process, one must prioritise
their safety before anything else. Ask those who work in a workshop for their
recommendations when it comes to the proper attire for woodworking. They will
surely tell you that wearing anything loose is a big no. These loose clothing
may get caught during the process. Aside from avoiding loose clothing, one must
also wear clothes depending on their location. It is good if one can minimise
the exposure of the skin as much as possible, but it doesn’t have to be that
way all the time.
Typically, an aware and experienced person that has been on
the woodworking business would recommend that one wear fitted shirts or sleeves
and pants, a pair of gloves, mask or safety goggles and an apron for the body
to avoid accidents and debris coming from the machine. With these, one can
minimise accidents.
WHEN USING EQUIPMENT
AND MACHINERIES
Woodworking will take forever if one follows the traditional
way, which is using nothing but one’s bare hands and a saw. Today, technology
has allowed woodworkers the availability of different equipment and
machineries, making the workload easier and quicker. However, carelessness and
arrogance may cause dangers to the workers.
Simple as it seems, a woodworker must always have a clean and
organised workspace. Though it seems nearly impossible, it can be done. A neat
and well-arranged workspace means easy access to equipment and tools and less rubble
that may cause accidents. Another thing that one must note is a routine
checking and maintenance of the tools used in working. Woodworking uses a lot
of blades that will surely cause harm if not used properly, which is why it is
very important to check and change them every now and then. Lastly, always ask
for assistance if one has concerns and questions regarding the function of a
certain tool. It is alright to ask for help than lose a part of your body.
WHAT NOT TO DO BEFORE
AND DURING WOODWORKING
This one does not need to be taught by anyone else since it
applies to almost everything. Woodworking is just like any other activity. The
only difference is that other activities do not work closely with sharp blades,
unlike woodworking.
Do not be easily distracted while working. A simple glance at
the back or a turn of the head may cause an accident that may cause varying
degrees of injury. Always be focused while working, those sharp and speeding
blades cut through the hardest wood and they will cut anything that touches
them. Avoid forcing oneself when working. If you’re feeling tired or weak,
don’t be afraid or shy to call in sick. The human body can only take so much
and if one feels ill, they should tell it in advance to avoid bigger problems.
Being aware and smart is enough to keep one safe from
accidents but these tips would help minimise the chances of having an accident
to zero. Follow and remember these safety tips and an accident-free work is a
sure thing.
