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As we settle into spring, many homeowners are ready to jump back into outdoor work around the house such as gardening, landscaping and home maintenance. While these activities can be rewarding, they can also pose serious risks of injury if proper precautions are not taken.
“Outdoor housework can expose individuals to various hazards, including sharp objects, chemicals, environmental allergens, and more. As a result, it’s essential to wear appropriate protective gear to minimize the risk of injury and ensure a safe working environment,” says Sandra Zisckind, Managing Partner, Diamond and Diamond Lawyers.
Being Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, Diamond and Diamond is well aware of the many safety concerns that come with home improvement activities. Below is a list of essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to have on hand from the firm’s Managing Partner, Sandra Zisckind.
Safety Glasses or Goggles
Protect your eyes from flying debris, dust and chemical splashes with safety glasses or goggles. “Eye injuries can occur unexpectedly during outdoor tasks, such as mowing the lawn or using power tools,” says Sandra Zisckind. “Whenever you plan to cut wood or use tools that can throw off debris, it’s crucial that you have a pair of safety glasses on hand.”
Work Gloves
“Proper-fitting work gloves not only provide physical protection but also better grip and dexterity, reducing the risk of accidents,” says Sandra Zisckind. Invest in durable work gloves to shield your hands from cuts, scrapes and blisters while handling tools, equipment and rough materials.
Sturdy Footwear
Wear closed-toe shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles to help protect your feet from punctures, cuts and impact injuries. “Sturdy footwear provides stability and support, especially on uneven or slippery surfaces encountered during outdoor housework,” notes Sandra Zisckind. For more information on what to consider when choosing adequate footwear, consider visiting the Government of Canada’s guide.
Sun Protection
Shield yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing with long sleeves/pant legs. “Prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn, heat exhaustion and skin cancer. Sun protection is crucial, especially during extended outdoor work sessions,” advises Zisckind.
Ear Protection
When it comes to outdoor housework, several common pieces of equipment can be quite loud. As such, it’s important to wear adequate protection for your ears whenever you find yourself using loud equipment. “Repeated exposure to loud noises can cause permanent hearing damage. Ear protection is vital for preserving your hearing health,” adds Sandra Zisckind.
At Diamond and Diamond Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the importance of prioritizing safety during home improvement activities. If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence or unsafe conditions while performing outdoor housework, our experienced team is here to help get you the justice you deserve.
By wearing the appropriate PPE and following the safety precautions we’ve outlined above, you can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries while doing home improvement activities this spring.
About Jeremy Diamond
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.
