Читать книгу Brickwork Projects for Patio & Garden - Alan Bridgewater - Страница 7

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Gloves

Goggles

Dust mask

Earmuffs

First-aid kit

Cell phone

Rubber gloves

Boots

In-line GFCI

• A few projects are physically demanding and if you have doubts about whether you are up to it, get advice from your doctor. When lifting heavy items, minimize back strain by holding the item close to your body, and bend your knees rather than your back.

• Never operate a machine, or attempt a difficult lifting or maneuvering task, if you are feeling tired.

• Follow manufacturers’ instructions when using tools and materials.

• Keep a first-aid kit and phone nearby, in case of an emergency and, if possible, avoid working alone.

• Do not build a pond if you have young children. Other water features are safer, but even so, never leave children unsupervised.

• Use an in-line GFCI (between the power socket and the plug) when operating electrical tools and water pumps, to prevent electric shock.

• Brickwork—digging holes, breaking up hardcore and handling bricks—is tough on your hands, so wear hefty leather gloves whenever possible. You will probably have to take them off for minute tasks.

• When mixing concrete and mortar, wear waterproof, thick rubber gloves, which will protect your skin from contact with corrosive cement powder.

• Boots made from thick leather, preferably steel-toe boots, will protect your feet.

• Sometimes it is necessary to wear additional protective gear, especially when you are cutting materials that generate sharp chippings and a lot of dust. Wear goggles when you are smashing hardcore, cutting or breaking bricks, stone and concrete, and a dust mask when mixing cement powder.

• When using an angle grinder, wear heavy boots, gloves, goggles, a dust mask and earmuffs.

• Wear earmuffs when using any noisy machine.