Before you climb the ladder to do spring maintenance, be sure to keep attic safety in mind. Most people don’t visit the attic often and aren’t well acquainted with some of the hazards that exist in that space just above your head. Attics are typically “unimproved” zones of the house, which means many built-in safety protections you expect in the living spaces below don’t apply up there. Here are a few attic safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Put on protective attire. Wear a face mask or respirator to avoid inhaling attic insulation fibers and other toxic airborne particulates. Guard against scrapes, scratches and skin reactions to insulation by wearing long sleeve shirt, long pants and gloves. Protect your eyes from airborne fibers and dust by wearing goggles.
- Climb carefully. Pull-down attic stairs are frequently wobbly and insecure when you put weight on them. Check the condition of the stairs before you climb up.
- Watch for sharp objects. Nails securing roof sheathing often protrude into the attic and can cause head injuries if you’re not aware of them. Wear at least a cap for some protection — a hard hat is even better.
- Be careful where you step. Stay on the boards that form a walkway down the center of the attic. Don’t step onto beds of insulation. Though they may look solid, often there’s nothing underneath but a thin ceiling which may well give way if you put your weight on it.
- Don’t trust wooden components. Attic trusses or ceiling joists may appear secure. However, dry rot frequently affects wood in the attic and these building materials may not support your weight. Test carefully before standing on them.
- Be aware of extreme heat. Solar heat radiating through the roof can make attic temperatures soar into the danger zone. Climb down into cooler living spaces and take frequent breaks if you’re working for an extended period in the attic. Stay hydrated.
Be informed about attic safety issues. Ask the professionals at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning for more information about staying safe in the attic.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about attic safety and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 440-201-2959.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area