(NAPSA)—Increasingly, do-ityourselfers (DIYers) are finding it difficult to mask their concerns whenit comesto safety. Recently, more than half of those who participated in a survey rated safety as more important than even the end result of a DIY project. That may explain why an overwhelming numberof these respondents said they or a family mem- ber had worn some type of protective apparel, such as a mask, when undertaking home improvement projects, yard or automotive work. Those who wear safety-related apparel reported wearing gloves more than any other type of protective clothing. Safety goggles were next in popularity, followed by dust masks and coveralls. The In a survey, do-it-yourselfers said safety was more important than how a project turned out. fail to wear protective apparel for do-it-yourself projects. Of those, just over half said it was because chief reason given for wearing this they simply prefer to wear old clothes. A few said it was because the Whenasked to name the most either too hot or too uncomfort- kind of clothing was to avoid getting chemicals on the skin. annoying aspects of do-it-yourself projects, breathing in fumes or particles took the top spot, according to more than half of DIYers who wearprotective clothing. Eighty-three percent said they would be likely to wear an N95 sanding mask whentaking on jobs such as sanding drywall if the mask could protect against expo- sure to dust and other irritants that can lead to throat irritation and breathing problems. When asked their opinion on how to stay safe, the respondents offered thesetips: Make sure you know what you're doing before getting started (over 50 percent), Follow manufacturers’ in- structions (21 percent), Purchase protective apparel and use it (14 percent). A small minority reported they apparel they tried previously was able or because they were not sure whatto buy. Whatever the reason,it’s defi- nitely not because they're afraid of what the neighbors might think. In a rare survey result, not a sin- gle person chosethis option. When taking on a home improvement or DIY project, always remember to read the manufacturer’s labeling, instructions and warnings to ensure you have chosen the correct product andprotection level for the task. The survey of 1,085 adults was conducted by telephone by Opinion Research Corporation on behalf of Kimberly-Clark Professional. The Kimberly-Clark Professional* brand provides solutions for home improvement and car care projects. To learn more, visit www.kediy.com.
