While there are plenty of plumbing tasks amateur DIYers can carry out at home with the help of tools such as the Bosch GSB 500W RE Corded Electric Drill Tool Set, it is important to make sure that you follow some basic safety protocols to keep yourself, and your home, protected.

So, before tackling a plumbing project or repair, keep the following safety advice in mind:

Safety Do’s

• Check whether you need to shut off the water supply.

This simple precaution can prevent a disaster from happening in your home!

• When working with drains, think carefully before opening them

While drains aren’t usually under pressure, a blockage somewhere could result in its contents spewing out in your direction when opened!

• Check for any plumbing or local building codes

The last thing you want to do is face a fine or put your home at risk by not getting the relevant permits for your project or repair work, and by not engaging with a professional, qualified plumber when needed.

• Keep your eyes protected

It’s essential that you wear appropriate protection over your eyes when carrying out any plumbing work, particularly if you’re using a Bosch corded electric drill, snaking a drain, using a reciprocating saw, or doing any hammering; even plumbing work under a sink can pose a risk to your eyes and face, and contaminants can easily get splashed into your eyes and cause you intense discomfort.

• Keep your hands protected

Wearing safety gloves can help protect you from any number of potentially harmful chemicals and materials you might come into contact with during your plumbing tasks. If you plan to use any type of drain machine, it’s best to pop a pair of latex gloves on underneath some strong leather gloves, to give you an added layer of protection against the myriad germs and bacteria often found in such places.

• Keep your lungs protected

When doing any kind of sanding or sawing work, always wear a face mask to stop you from inhaling any particulate matter.

• Exercise caution with power tools

Always follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer when using any kind of power tool, especially when drilling or soldering. Take care when soldering pipes near walls or close to any insulation, and protect any combustible materials in the immediate vicinity by using a heat shield when using a soldering torch.

• Always read the labels

If you’re using any chemicals or machinery, read and pay attention to any warning labels.

Safety don’ts

• Never ignore code requirements

Designed to keep you and your household protected, building and plumbing codes should always be heeded; make sure you’re fully aware of them before starting any plumbing work.

• Never cut blindly

It’s really important to know what might be behind a surface before you start drilling or cutting into a ceiling, floor cavity, or wall. Ductwork, electrical wiring or plumbing pipes may be hidden in the cavities.

• Never misuse any tools or equipment

When tools are used for things other than their intended purpose, it can easily (and often does!) result in accidents and injuries, and failing to maintain power tools appropriately, can be just as hazardous.