Renovation Safety: What Homeowners Should Know

# Renovation Safety: What Homeowners Should Know

Renovations create hazards that require awareness and precautions.

Common renovation hazards include tripping over materials and debris, sharp objects including nails and cut materials, falling objects from work areas, dust and air quality issues, electrical hazards during work, and open holes in floors or walls.

Home safety during renovation means establishing clear boundaries for work zones, keeping children and pets away from construction, wearing appropriate footwear when entering work areas, and never touching electrical with power on.

Air quality protection includes running air purifiers with HEPA filters, closing HVAC to work areas during dusty phases, wearing mask in dusty conditions, and vacating during high-dust activities.

Hazardous materials in older homes may include lead paint in pre-1980 homes, asbestos in various materials through 1980s, and vermiculite insulation potentially containing asbestos. Testing before disturbance is essential.

Contractor responsibility includes maintaining safe site, removing hazards daily, posting warnings, and protecting adjacent areas.

Your responsibility includes staying out of active work areas, following contractor safety instructions, reporting unsafe conditions, and not bypassing safety measures.

Know emergency procedures. Where are shut-offs? First aid kit location? Emergency contacts posted?