NHS hospitals treat 300 patients a week who are injured in DIY

Revealed: NHS hospitals treat 300 patients a week in A&E who are injured in DIY accidents (with at least one person a day hurt mowing the lawn)

• NHS figures show 6,867 people treated after falling from a ladder in 12 months
• Another 466 were injured while mowing lawns from last April to March this year
• In the same period, household machinery caused at least 4,860 injuries in total

NHS England figures for the period April 2018 to March this year show that 6,867 people were treated in hospital after tumbling from a ladder (stock image)

Just as many of us are trying out the tools we got for Christmas, experts are warning that almost 300 people a week have to go to A&E in England as a result of DIY accidents.

NHS England figures for the period April 2018 to March this year show that 6,867 people were treated in hospital after tumbling from a ladder, while a further 466 injured themselves mowing lawns. 

During the same period, household machinery caused 4,860 injuries, while another 4,050 people hurt themselves falling from furniture.

The data shows that, in total, doctors have had to treat nearly 77,000 people who have injured themselves in DIY mishaps in the past five years. 

Experts say that growing numbers of people are hurting themselves after being inspired by TV programmes such as DIY SOS, Grand Designs and 60 Minute Makeover.

Research suggests that injuries caused by DIY cost the NHS up to £222 million a year.

In its advice to DIY enthusiasts, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said gas and electrical renewal or repair work should always be carried out by a ‘competent, qualified person’.

It added: ‘Be realistic and don’t tackle a job unless you really have the ability. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes when mowing the lawn and keep your feet and hands well away from the mower blades.’

Some 466 injured themselves while mowing lawns in around 12 months alone (stock image)

A spokesman added: ‘Far too many people overestimate their capabilities and rush jobs, which can easily lead to injury. Before embarking on DIY, always ensure that the appropriate safety gear – such as gloves, masks and goggles – is worn. Make yourself aware of the safety instructions relating to any power tools beforehand.’

We have become a nation of DIY enthusiasts with more than £31 billion spent every year on putting up shelves, refitting kitchens and hanging picture frames.

Research from AA found that in the 1970s, 71 per cent of men learned home improvement skills from their fathers but, by 1990, the figure had dropped to 67 per cent, before plummeting to 44 per cent in the latter part of the decade.

Last year, a survey by Nationwide found that only 63 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds could change a lightbulb.

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