If you’re in the middle of a remodel or are considering a remodel for your home, here are a few tips that will help keep your family safe-and your project running smoothly.
Keeping children safe
Home-remodeling construction areas can seem like a fun play area to young children. To keep the area safe, crews should restrict access to the areas they are working in by posting yellow tape and instructing children not to cross it. The homeowners and parents need to also take an active part in keeping children safe and should designate an area away from the work site for play and toy storage. Be sure to explain to children which areas are off limits and that materials or contractors’ tools and machinery are strictly off limits and not to be played with.
Communicating with your contractor so that he knows children may be present. Before any work begins, inform the contractor of the number of children in the house, their ages, and whether any are particularly mischief-prone so that he can be on the lookout while working.
Find out when large equipment and orders of building materials are being delivered. You might consider taking a family outing on those days if possible in order to minimize danger. A contractor is not a babysitter and cannot always be watching to see where your kids are as materials are moved from place to place.
Control hazardous materials
Before your project starts, be aware of potentially toxic materials that may be on the job site. Lead paint, asbestos, mold, and even dust could be health hazards during a remodel, especially if the project includes demolition. Keep children and pets out of areas where those hazards exist and away from toxic chemicals, such as paint strippers. Ask your contractor what steps will be taken-to avoid creating indoor pollutants and how they will contain those that can’t be avoided. Make sure your kids know not to play around those materials or zones.
For more safety guidelines or to schedule construction, contact our offices in Joplin, MO. Our experienced contractors can work with you to create plan that is both effective and safe.