Safety First: Expert Tips for Using Fixings Safely and Securely

Fixings are often the unsung heroes of many projects, whether you're mounting kitchen cupboards, securing decking, or installing shelving. Yet, every reliable installation relies on careful decisions that prioritise safety. These considerations help prevent accidents, property damage, and, crucially, injury. Whether you’re a seasoned tradesperson or a weekend DIYer, putting safety first is essential when working with fixings. In this guide, we'll explore the most important safety practices, helping you steer clear of common mistakes and complete each job with confidence and care.

Safety Tips for Using Fixings

Working with fixings is about more than just choosing a screw and getting stuck in. A thoughtful, step-by-step approach can make all the difference. Start by preparing your work area. Clear any obstructions, make sure surfaces are clean, and check that you have enough light to see what you’re doing clearly.

Using the correct drill and bit for your chosen material is fundamental. Brick, plasterboard, timber, and metal all require different techniques and tools. Before you begin drilling, make sure you’ve selected the appropriate fixing for both the type of wall and the weight of the item you’re installing. Misjudging this can result in poor grip or, worse, a failed installation.

Once the fixing is in place, test it for stability. If it moves or doesn't feel firm, reassess and, if necessary, replace it. Spending an extra minute or two at this stage could save you from having to patch up wall damage or deal with something coming loose later on.

Common Mistakes in Fixing Installations

Even experienced hands occasionally get it wrong. One of the most common issues is failing to identify the type of wall you're working with. For instance, treating a plasterboard wall as if it were solid brick can lead to disaster. The fixings may appear secure at first, but they’ll likely fail under any significant load.

Another frequent mistake is using the wrong type or size of fixing. A basic screw might support a small photo frame, but it won’t be suitable for a fully loaded bookshelf. Fixings come with weight ratings for a reason, so it’s important to follow them.

People also tend to forget about load distribution. A large item needs multiple fixing points to spread the weight evenly. Relying on a single anchor point, particularly in a hollow wall, can end in disappointment.

How to Avoid Wall Damage

Wall damage isn’t just a visual nuisance. It can undermine the strength and safety of whatever you’re trying to install. The best way to prevent it is by taking your time during the drilling process. Keep the drill steady, work slowly, and avoid areas close to corners or edges where materials are more likely to crack or crumble.

Using sharp drill bits and pre-drilling pilot holes, especially in brittle or old walls, can reduce the risk of cracking. Also, choose your fixings carefully. Large expansion plugs, if overtightened, can blow out plaster or brick. Mark your drill bit with tape or use a depth stop to avoid over drilling.

Load-Bearing Considerations

Not all walls are equal, and neither are the fixings you use. Before installing anything heavy, assess whether the wall can take the load. Is it a solid, load-bearing wall, or a lightweight partition? The type of wall makes a big difference to the choice of fixings.

For heavy items like TV mounts, handrails, or cabinets, go for high-strength options such as resin anchors, metal bolts, or long frame fixings. Distribute the weight over multiple fixings, and never rely on a single screw to do all the work. If you're unsure whether the wall can handle the load, it’s worth getting a professional opinion.

Fire Safety with Fixings

Fire safety is often overlooked during general installation work, but it’s an important consideration—especially in public buildings or commercial properties. Fixings made from plastic or untreated metals can weaken or melt under extreme heat.

Use fire-rated fixings when working in areas where fire resistance is required. These fixings are designed to maintain their structural integrity when exposed to high temperatures. They are especially important for installations like fire doors, suspended ceilings, and cabling systems. Always check that your chosen fixings meet relevant fire safety standards in the UK.

Corrosion Prevention

Whether you're working indoors or outside, corrosion is a long-term risk that can compromise the strength and appearance of your fixings. For any installation likely to be exposed to moisture, opt for stainless steel, galvanised steel, or fixings with corrosion-resistant coatings.

Be mindful of mixing metals too. When two different metals are in contact, especially in damp conditions, galvanic corrosion can set in quickly. A good example is using stainless steel screws with aluminium fittings. Where mixed materials are unavoidable, consider using rubber washers or isolators to prevent direct contact.

Using Fixings in Wet Areas

Environments like bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor walls expose fixings to continuous moisture, which makes corrosion a real concern. Waterproof or stainless steel fixings are a must in these areas.

Before inserting any fixing, seal the drilled hole with silicone or a waterproof filler. This stops water from entering the wall, which can lead to mould growth, rot, or other hidden damage. Your fixings should not only resist rust but also maintain their grip in potentially damp substrates.

Electrical Safety with Fixings

Drilling into walls carries the hidden danger of striking live electrical wires. A moment of carelessness could result in electric shock, equipment damage, or worse. That’s why a wall scanner or multi-detector should be considered essential.

These tools help locate wires, pipes, and studs beneath the surface so you can drill with confidence. When working close to electrical outlets or switches, turn off the mains supply as a precaution. If you’re unsure about what’s behind a wall, it’s always safer to get a qualified electrician to investigate before drilling.

PPE for Installation

Even seemingly minor installation jobs deserve proper safety gear. Safety goggles are essential when drilling, especially into masonry or tiles. Dust and debris can fly into your eyes in seconds.

Hearing protection should be worn when working with loud power tools over extended periods. Gloves protect your hands from sharp edges and hot drill bits, while a dust mask is important when working with older walls or materials that may release irritants. On larger jobs or construction sites, steel-toe boots, high-vis vests, and knee pads might also be needed.

Safe Removal of Fixings

Removing old or failed fixings can be just as delicate as putting new ones in. The goal is to avoid enlarging the hole or damaging the surrounding wall surface. Slowly unscrew the fixing using a screwdriver or set your drill to reverse. If the plug is stubborn, insert a screw partway and ease it out gently with a pair of pliers.

In cases where the plug won’t come out cleanly, push it slightly into the wall and fill the hole with an appropriate filler. Once the filler is dry and sanded smooth, you can re-drill nearby or even in the same spot, provided the surface is sound.

Conclusion

When working with fixings, safety is never something to overlook. Each material, wall type, and installation scenario presents its own risks and challenges. But with a bit of foresight, the right equipment, and a strong understanding of best practice, you can complete your projects with confidence and care.

The right fixing not only secures your object but also reflects good judgment and a responsible approach to your work. Whether you're hanging a mirror or fitting a fire door, the same rules apply: respect your materials, take your time, and always prioritise safety.

FAQs

1. What type of fixing should I use in a bathroom or wet room? In areas prone to moisture, always use rust-resistant fixings such as stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanised screws. Waterproof anchors and sealants around drilled holes will also help prevent water ingress and long-term damage.

2. How can I tell if a wall is load-bearing? Load-bearing walls usually support structures above them and are often perpendicular to floor joists. If in doubt, consult building plans or a structural engineer before fixing anything heavy into the wall.

3. What are fire-rated fixings and when should I use them? Fire-rated fixings are specially designed to retain strength and integrity during high temperatures. They’re crucial for installations like fire doors, cable trays, or anything that’s part of a fire protection system in residential or commercial buildings.

4. Is it safe to drill near electrical sockets? Not unless you’ve verified what’s behind the wall. Use a wall scanner to check for hidden wires. As a general rule, avoid drilling directly above or below sockets and switches, where cables are most likely to run.

5. What should I do if my fixing spins in the wall? This usually means the hole is too large or the material has failed. Remove the plug, insert a suitable wall repair filler or resin, and let it cure before attempting a new fixing—preferably slightly offset from the original hole.

6. Do I always need PPE for simple installations? Even simple jobs can produce flying dust or debris, especially when drilling into hard materials. At the very least, wear safety goggles and gloves. For extended tasks or specific environments, additional PPE like masks or ear defenders is advised.