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Keep Kids Safe
Avoiding the Hazards of Home Remodeling By Alyson English
Industrial hygienist Chuck Whitman says that Barnes is right. "Arsenic that has leeched from treated lumber can be found at high concentrations in soil under play sets, decks and fences constructed of the treated lumber," he says, noting that concerned parents can check out the CDC Web site and search for more information on CCA-treated wood.
Ashe notes that researching materials is important to the safety of any home improvement project, and pressure-treated wood is a good example. "Most engineered wood products contain poisons, so research your materials," he says. "You can always find an eco-friendly alternative. It may cost more, but sometimes it's a small price to pay."
Of course, chemical hazards aren't the only problems families need to be concerned with during DIY projects. Parents should always remember that while hammers, saws and materials may not seem interesting to them, it can be a whole different story for a child. Ashe says that avoiding these types of "immediate" injuries, as he calls them, just takes some forethought, common sense and parental enforcement. "Injuries from these hazards can be easily avoided by using common sense, keeping a clean work environment, maintaining good communication, and setting and enforcing boundaries with your kids," he says. While there are many potential dangers in any remodeling project, most jobs can be done safely, even with little ones underfoot. "If researched and executed thoughtfully and correctly, any job you take on can be completely safe," Ashe says. "The key to safety with any project is common sense."