DIY projects can be rewarding, but they also come with risks. A new study has revealed the most common DIY-related accidents, based on data from the National Safety Council Injury Facts. Understanding these risks can help you stay safe while working on your projects.
15. Electrical Appliances
Injury rate: 14.6 per 100,000 people. Electrical appliances can be dangerous if not handled properly. Always unplug devices before working on them and ensure your hands are dry to avoid electric shocks.
14. Counters and Countertops
Injury rate: 20.8 per 100,000 people. Be careful when installing or working on countertops. Ensure they are properly supported to prevent them from collapsing and causing injuries.
13. Lawn Mowers
Injury rate: 21.6 per 100,000 people. Lawn mowers can cause serious injuries if not used correctly. Wear sturdy shoes, avoid loose clothing, and never reach under the mower while it’s running.
12. Power Home Workshop Saws
Injury rate: 21.7 per 100,000 people. Always use safety guards and wear protective gear when using power saws. Keep your hands away from the blade and follow all safety instructions.
11. Lawn and Garden Equipment
Injury rate: 22.4 per 100,000 people. Lawn and garden tools can be hazardous. Wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure tools are in good working condition before use.
10. Window, Door Sills, and Frames
Injury rate: 23.2 per 100,000 people. Be cautious when working on windows and door frames. Use proper tools and support structures to avoid falls and injuries.
9. Nails and Carpet Tacks
Injury rate: 23.5 per 100,000 people. Handle nails and carpet tacks with care. Wear gloves to protect your hands and use appropriate tools to avoid injuries.
8. Fences
Injury rate: 28.4 per 100,000 people. When installing or repairing fences, ensure they are stable and secure. Wear protective clothing to avoid cuts and splinters.
7. Glass Doors, Windows, and Panels
Injury rate: 30.4 per 100,000 people. Glass can shatter and cause serious injuries. Handle with care, wear gloves, and use proper tools when installing or repairing glass items.
6. Workshop Manual Tools
Injury rate: 31.6 per 100,000 people. Manual tools can cause injuries if used improperly. Keep tools sharp and in good condition, and always use them as intended.
5. Ladders and Stools
Injury rate: 65 per 100,000 people. Ensure your ladder is secure before use. Never place it on a slippery surface, and avoid overreaching to maintain balance. In 2021, ladder and stool-related accidents resulted in 214,716 injuries.
4. Ceilings and Walls
Injury rate: 92.9 per 100,000 people. Wear a mask when working on ceilings and walls to avoid inhaling dust. Check for structural damage and consult a professional if necessary. In 2021, ceilings and walls were responsible for 306,891 injuries.
3. Poisonings
Injury rate: 522.6 per 100,000 people. Handle chemicals with care. Wear gloves and eye protection, and never mix chemicals without proper research to avoid toxic reactions. In 2021, poisonings caused 1,734,576 injuries.
2. Stairs, Ramps, Landings, and Floors
Injury rate: 825.5 per 100,000 people. Falls on stairs and ramps are common. Ensure flooring is safe and secure, and take precautions when using ladders on stairs. In 2021, this category accounted for 2,727,809 injuries.
1. Falls
Injury rate: 2,103.5 per 100,000 people. Falls are the most common DIY injury. Use secure ladders, wear protective gear, and avoid working in unsafe conditions like heavy rain. In 2021, 6,981,390 people went to the hospital after suffering a DIY-related fall.
Methodology
The study, commissioned by Steel Products Direct used data on DIY injuries from the National Safety Council Injury Facts, focusing on home injuries in 2021. The study ranked the most common DIY-related injuries by their rate per 100,000 people.
Katy Willis is a writer, master herbalist, master gardener, and certified canine nutritionist who has been writing since 2002. She’s finds joy in learning new and interesting things, and finds history, science, and nature endlessly fascinating.
