Tips and Tricks for Residential Attic Safety

May 17, 2016

If you're planning to venture into your attic sometime soon to accomplish a task, make a repair, or just to move or store belongings, you'll want to consider attic safety. The same goes if you're planning to hire someone else to perform a job in the attic, whether it's repairing HVAC ductwork, installing ventilation or insulation, air sealing, or electrical work. Many of the thousands of household accidents that occur every year in the United States happen in the attic. Consider the following attic safety tips:
  • Plan ahead. Gather the right tools before climbing into the attic, so you won't have to go up and down more than necessary. Many attic accidents are falls from ladders or steep stairways. Adequate lighting is imperative, too, either with installed lighting or flashlights or electric lanterns.
  • Dress for attic work. Dress in clothes that you don't mind getting dirty. Wear a hat and gloves, too, to protect yourself from insulation that can result in hives or itchiness. Find some knee-pads if you expect to be crawling into tight spaces.
  • Prepare for conditions. Attics can get as hot as 150 degrees in the summer after the sun has been shining on the roof all day. Plan to do your work (or schedule repairs) in the morning before the attic has a chance to heat up. If you think your attic job will take longer than an hour or so, take some water, so you won't be climbing up and down so much. Take a dust mask or particulate respirator with you to protect your lungs from airborne dust and other contaminants. If your attic doesn't have a sturdy floor, take care to remain on the floor joists and cross beams. Insulation and drywall aren't going to support your weight. Keep a wary eye out for exposed nails and wood that's prone to splintering.
  • Consider calling in a professional. If you're not 100 percent comfortable you can do that challenging attic job, hire a professional.
To learn more about attic safety in your Des Moines area home, please contact us at Lozier Heating & Cooling. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "David Papazian/Shutterstock"