RoSPA’s Top Ten lists of dangerous tools and materials released today show woodwork, knives and saws are likely to spell disaster for hundreds of DIY enthusiasts this Easter.
The Bank Holiday is the start of the DIY season as people repair their homes after the ravages of winter and brighten up rooms for spring and summer.
The most dangerous tools in the RoSPA hit list are: 1, Knives and scalpels (21,300 accidents in the UK each year); 2, Saws (15,100); 3, Grinders (6,400); 4, Hammers (5,800); 5, Chisels (3,900); 6, Screwdrivers (3,400); 7, Power Drills (3,000); 8, Axes (2,200); 9, Planes (2,100); 10, Welding Equipment (2,000).
Injuries from tools and machinery are estimated to account for 87,000 of the 220,000 DIY fans turning up at hospital.
The Top Ten DIY materials to take care with are: 1, Wood, chipboard etc (29,400 accidents); 2, Paving/Concrete Blocks (21,200); 3, Metal bars, sheets etc (12,800); 4, Nails (15,400); 5, Bricks (8,000); 6, Paint and paint pots (3,900); 7, Glue, paste etc (3,100); 8= Screws and Floor/Wall Tiles (2,500); 10, Wallpaper (1,600).
Ladder and stepladder accidents send 41,000 people to hospital annually – often resulting in some of the most serious injuries and even death when people fall from high up.
Splinters, grit, dust, dirt and other particles result in another 60,000 people seeking treatment in casualty.
Common DIY accidents include cuts from knives while cutting cable and carpets, slips with saws when cutting wood, paint dripping into eyes from ceilings and slabs falling onto hands and feet.
David Jenkins, RoSPA Product Safety Adviser, said: “Many accidents could be avoided by spending more time on planning and ensuring that safety gear - such as gloves, masks and goggles - is worn when necessary.
“People often make mistakes when they rush jobs or are tired. Many people overestimate their capabilities, for instance gas and electric work should be left to the experts.â€
DIY accident statistics courtesy of ROSPA
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