Published
The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is joining consumer protection agencies nationwide in September to promote the Don't be a tool initiative, which reminds men to take care when doing work around the house.
Power tools (especially angle grinders), car jacks and ladders are among those most associated with injuries during DIY projects.
Fair Trading Product Safety Manager David Strachan encouraged Queenslanders to take a few extra moments to consider safety before getting started on handyman projects around the house.
“On Father’s Day, many dads will be testing out their new gadgets and tools and the last thing we want to see is dads falling victim to a preventable injury,” Mr Strachan said.
“Unfortunately, when it comes down to it, most DIY injuries are the result of lack of awareness about how to use a product safely, not following instructions and using the wrong tool for the job.
“Injury data indicates men are at far greater risk. Around 85% of DIY injuries occur during seemingly simple tasks such as cleaning out gutters, painting a ceiling or even pruning.
“Falls from ladders alone see almost 1300 men hospitalised nationwide each year.
“When it comes to more complex tasks, ask your local hardware store for advice or look online for videos and tips from reliable sources about how to get the job done safely.
Tips for using car jacks safety also feature in the campaign. Each year there are around 160 reports of amputation, fractures and crush injuries associated with vehicle jacks.
“Jacks are only designed to lift a vehicle, not support its weight,” Mr Bauer said.
“Bricks or blocks can be used as chocks, but never to support the vehicle’s weight as they can easily topple over.
“Always work on a flat firm surface and use support stands to provide stability.”
Consumers can access more car jack safety information and view our Don't be a jackass - an anti-manual for using a car jack on the OFT website.
For more information visit www.fairtrading.qld.gov.au, or see the safety videos on the Product Safety Australia website at www.productsafety.gov.au.
Contact details
You can contact QLD OFT media team directly if you:
- are a journalist or media representative
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The media team does not take enquiries from the general public.
Members of the public can contact QLD OFT here.