You’ve decided to take the plunge into the thrilling world of home renovation. While it’s exciting to transform your humble abode into the envy of the neighbourhood, there’s something to consider. No, it’s not your questionable choice of neon green highlights for the kitchen. It’s the sneaky, often overlooked environmental hazards that lurk in the shadows of home renovation. Below we look at the world of safety standards and the hidden dangers that could be hiding in your home.
Home Renovation And Safety Standards – “Wait, My House Can Be Hazardous?”
Absolutely! Your house isn’t just a collection of walls and a roof; it’s a complex ecosystem of materials, some of which date back to a time when safety standards were as lax. Lead paint, asbestos, and mould are the unholy trinity of home renovation hazards. They’re like those uninvited party guests who refuse to leave, lurking behind your walls and under your floors.
The Lead Paint Legacy
If your house was built before the 80s rocked our world, there’s a chance it’s flaunting lead paint like it’s still in fashion. Disturbing this paint releases lead dust, which can be super harmful to your health. When trying to get rid of it, it gets everywhere and is a nightmare to clean up. Plus, it’s toxic.
Home Renovation And Safety Standards – Asbestos: The Hidden Foe
Asbestos is the real terror of home hazards. Once hailed as a miracle material (fireproof, durable, and versatile) it is now recognised as a dangerous material. If disturbed, asbestos fibres can go airborne presenting numerous issues. Inhaling these fibres is extremely hazardous to your health and, specifically, your lungs. Asbestos removal MUST be conducted by professionals with training and the appropriate safety gear.
The Mould Menace
Mould is a health hazard that loves damp, poorly ventilated spaces. Breathing in mould spores attacks your immune system and can leave you feeling rough for days. And in severe cases could be life-threatening. Once it’s spotted, you need to get it cleaned and guard against it coming back.
Gas! Be Aware of Home Renovation And Safety Standards
While we’re unearthing environmental hazards, let’s talk about Radon Gas. So, what is Radon Gas? Imagine an uninvited, invisible, odourless guest crashing your home – that’s Radon Gas. It’s a natural radioactive gas that can sneak into your house through cracks and other openings. Most commonly found in the ground, houses with basements and direct contact with the soil are at higher risk of contamination.
Staying Safe
Ventilation: The Breath Of Fresh Air
Let’s talk about ventilation. It’s not just about preventing your house from smelling like something unsavoury. Proper ventilation during renovation is crucial. It’s like giving your house a set of lungs to breathe and expel all the nasty stuff you’ve stirred up. It’s one of the best ways to get rid of these nasties found in the air.
Safety Gear: Your DIY Armour – Home Renovation And Safety Standards
Donning safety gear isn’t just a fashion statement for the cautious. It’s essential. Safety glasses, gloves, masks – this is your armour in the battle against hidden hazards. Wearing a mask might not make you look like a superhero, but it does make sure you’re saving your body from potential harm.
Knowledge Is Power: Test Before You Wreck
Before you go swinging that sledgehammer, get your home tested. Check for lead, asbestos, Radon Gas, and other hidden foes. It’s like checking the weather before a camping trip – it’s better to be prepared than caught in a storm.
Home Renovation And Safety Standards – Wrapping It Up: Safety First, Instagram Second
Tackling a renovation project is exciting, but let’s not forget about the hidden environmental hazards that could come along with it. Safety might not be as flashy as a brand new kitchen island, but it’s far more important. Remember, always put safety first – you can Instagram your accomplishments later (once you’ve ditched the uncool safety gear).
