Whatever the trade, maintaining a clean and organised work area will make for a more efficient and successful project. Here are some guidelines from decorating professionals that helped them achieve this.
Prepare the Area:
Whilst it may sound an obvious thing to do, clear the space of unnecessary items and furniture before starting the project. It will make for less things to have to work around, trip over and lose tools under – and everyone has done those things to at least some degree and regretted not taking a few minutes at the outset. Cover or move large pieces of furniture to protect them from paint splatter and dust.
Use Dust Sheets or Protective Coverings:
Place dust sheets on floors and furniture to catch paint drips, dust and debris. On hard floors in particular, ensure they can’t slip and slide about to prevent accidents. Consider self-adhesive films, which are waterproof, stay in place and won’t present a trip hazards, which cotton dust sheets can sometimes do.
Protect Floors and Surfaces:
In addition to dust sheets, carpet protectors and other protection, consider using masking tape to protect skirting boards, trim, and other surfaces. Even for the very best, sooner or later paint will go somewhere it shouldn’t and you’ll be grateful that there’s something in between it and the surface.
Organise Tools and Materials:
Different people have different ways of organising tools, but it does pay to be able to quickly lay your hands on a tool when you need it and small delays stack up over the course of a job and reduce your efficiency. Use tool trays, buckets or organisers to keep paintbrushes, rollers, and other items within reach. Some find a toolbelt to be useful to keep key tools handy. Organise your vehicle as well – there are many tradespeople who swear by the virtues of a fully racked out van where everything has a home.
Clean as You Go:
Regularly clean paint brushes, rollers and other tools during breaks or when switching colours. As well as keeping them in tiptop condition, this also prevents cross-contamination of colours.
Dispose of Waste Properly:
Have a designated area or receptacle for waste disposal, including used paint cans, tools and other disposable items. Follow local regulations for proper disposal of hazardous materials and separate out materials that can be recycled. The major paint merchants have takeback schemes for cans – even if it’s not their brand – and whilst you may think you can’t make a difference, a lot of people taking back a small amount adds up to a big number, so drop them off when you next call in.
Seal Off Adjacent Areas:
If possible, seal off adjacent rooms or areas to prevent dust and fumes from spreading – it will save you time cleaning up at the end and the customer will appreciate it. Plastic sheeting can be effective for creating barriers: ProDec’s Zipped Doorway Protector is ideal where there are separate rooms, or for sectioning off areas of a larger space ProDec Dust Wall creates a floor to ceiling barrier.
Keep a Tidy Workspace:
Regularly pick up and dispose of debris, used masking tape and other waste. A tidy workspace is not only more efficient but also safer.
Invest in Cleanup Supplies:
Have cleanup supplies readily available, including rags, cleaning solutions and paint thinner. This ensures that spills and accidents can be cleaned promptly.
Communication with Others:
Hands up if you’ve been working with someone and they’ve borrowed a tool without telling you? It’s always the tool you need at that moment, so if multiple people are involved in the project, establish clear communication about the organisation of tools, materials and the overall workflow. This minimises confusion and enhances teamwork.
