The plumbing system in your home runs through the walls, under the flooring, and even under the ground. There are many different parts and pieces and that means that there are many things that can go wrong. The complexity of a plumbing malfunction will vary greatly depending on the location and which components are involved.

Most of the time, hiring a professional plumber is the best approach to a plumbing repair in your home. But, some repairs can be done on your own. In both cases, the number one priority is safety. When working on any part of your home’s plumbing system it is important to keep yourself safe.

Here are some safety tips to follow if you have a plumbing project this summer:

• Wear gloves. When working on your plumbing system it is not unusual to find yourself in tight spaces with not a lot of room to work. This can lead to skinned knuckles and punctured hands, depending on the circumstances. Make sure to wear a thick pair of gloves that are waterproof. In addition to the hardware causing injury, your plumbing system is full of dangerous bacteria, and gloves that are waterproof will keep the bacteria off of your bare hands.
• Wear goggles. Your plumbing system is pressurized in just a way to aid the movement of water and waste materials. When there is a clog or a leak, the pressure changes. A clog will cause pressure to build behind it. If you are working to remove a clog, you could find yourself splashed in the face with bacteria-filled water. Make sure to wear goggles to protect your eyes.
• Wear a mask. Many chemicals are used in plumbing. Whether it is a drain cleaning chemical or, a waterproof epoxy designed to seal two components together. The fumes and particles of the chemicals can be irritating to your lungs. Make sure to wear a mask when working on your plumbing system to protect your respiratory system from irritants. This is especially true if you have a respiratory illness like asthma.

If you have a plumbing project on your to-do list this summer, make sure to follow these safety tips for keeping yourself protected. And, if the project turns into more than you planned, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help.