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Safety Tips For Plumbers

Written by woodworker on June 25th, 2009

A plumber’s role encompasses  a wide range of tasks such as repair work on pipes, working on fixtures, and installing appliances. The plumber during the course of their career will be engaged in tasks on a wide range of sites. This also means that they are likely to face different working conditions, some of them potentially dangerous. If the correct measures are not taken in ensuring the plumber’s safety, the risk of catching a disease or maintaining an injury will be higher. The following tips should help you avoid some of these pitfalls.  

The risk of health problems

Plumbers are often exposed to a wide variety of chemical hazards, as they have to work on different sites. It is possible to avoid excessive exposure by being as prepared as possible before you enter the site. It is best to get training and to check that any chemicals are cleaned up before you begin your work.  

Avoid electrocution

Working with electrical devices, especially in wet environments can often be dangerous as there is risk of electrocution. This often occurs when the plumber assumes that the electricity is off. This is a dangerous assumption that can result in serious injury, possibly even death. Only use power tools that are safe for a wet environment and that have a ground fault circuit interpreter. You should take extra care when working on metal pipes; if you feel a tingling when touching a metal pipe, stop work immediately.

Working in confined spaces

Plumbing often involves working in cramped conditions. It will be important for you to identify these areas and follow important safety procedures if you enter one. Be aware of possible oxygen deficiency and also that hydrogen sulphide, a by-product of sewage decomposition, can build up to unhealthy levels. For your own benefit, you should have a long lasting ventilation system in place for your job. Regular supply of fresh air will make some of the more challenging tasks get completed in a smoother way.

Appropriate clothing and equipment

As a plumber, you may be required quite often to work in wet areas. Therefore you should be using appropriate footwear to avoid any potential falls and slips. You should be able to manoeuvre around quite easily, so you should keep your area clear of any form of clutter. You should ensure that you keep all of your tools and equipment in good working order at all times. You should also keep cutting equipment sharp to ensure that it will work properly. To avoid injuring yourself with cuts you should cut away from your face and body. Ensure that you use eye protection at all times when cutting or grinding.

The benefits of taking regular breaks

It is useful for your well-being if you get in the habit of taking regular breaks during your tasks. This will be good for your mind and for when you have to take on more physically and mentally demanding tasks later on.

As we have seen, the job of a plumber can be quite challenging. You will be working in some dangerous conditions, therefore you should take all the steps necessary to ensure your safety.

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about central heating, plumbers, London plumber, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.

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