Because your role as a plumber often involves working in unsafe circumstances, you have to take measures to protect yourself. Working in confined spaces near electricity and water, as well as being exposed to dangerous substances, is common on job sites. This is why you must keep yourself safe while resolving plumbing issues.
Implement these tips to stay safe while completing your plumbing jobs.
Be Proactive
Have the right tools, skills, knowledge, and information for each job. This helps you arrive ready to make the appropriate repairs. The process may include using a virtual consultation with customers to gather knowledge of the issue and potentially show up with a solution. You also should understand local building codes, have the proper licensing, and know about other regulations needed to safely and efficiently complete your work.
Bring the Necessary Tools and Equipment
Make sure the required tools and equipment are in the van before heading to a destination. This can be accomplished by stocking and organizing your tools and equipment before heading out for the day and after returning to the shop. You also should maintain your work vehicle so there are no transportation issues.
Use Personal Protective Equipment
Always wear the proper safety gear. This includes the right clothing, eyewear, earplugs, boots, hats, work gloves, a face mask, and a respirator. The gear protects you from environmental hazards such as mold from leaking water supplies, dust from cutting pipes, asbestos in old materials, burns from soldering or hot water heaters, toxic drain cleaners, and bacteria and viruses from raw sewage. Be sure to follow sanitary practices such as washing your hands, not touching your eyes, and washing your work uniforms separately from other laundry. Be sure to use hand sanitizer, latex gloves, masks, and shoe covers when cleaning and sanitizing tools, equipment, parts, and the company vehicle before and after a job.
Follow Safety Precautions
Climbing ladders and scaffolding, using loud equipment, moving repetitively, and working in confined spaces are part of completing plumbing projects. This is why safety precautions must be implemented to avoid accidents and injuries. For instance, practice safe lifting techniques and avoid staying in awkward positions for long. Also, rotate tasks and take breaks every 30 minutes. Additionally, use power tools with GFCI to avoid electrical shock. Plus, use air monitors in oxygen-deficient areas.
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