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Safety With DIY Materials

Some DIY materials are dangerous if not used with care. Paint stripper and wood preservatives may cause skin or eye injury, or give off noxious, inflammable fumes. Cement and glass fibre insulation can cause skin irritation or eye injuries during prolonged handling. Read the instructions with care, and always wear safety equipment if recommended.

Asbestos

Old materials containing asbestos need careful handling and disposal. Grey or grey-blue asbestos may be present in corrugated cement roofing board; cement fascias; soffits (the horizontal boards that cover the gap between the house wall and the guttering under the edge of the roof); gutters; old roof, tank, and pipe insulation; and some old textured ceiling finishes. Wear gloves and a face mask for handling or removing any of these.

To minimize dust, soak the surface with water before cutting, drilling, or sanding.

Never dispose of asbestos yourself. Bag up the material, keeping it damp if possible, and contact your local authority - most operate a free disposal service.