DIY projects are part of everyday life for Austrians, but activities such as hammering or drilling often lead to serious accidents.
The prevention institute KFV issued a warning and pointed to a significant increase in the number of injuries. While there were 9,500 such cases in 2023, in 2024 that number rose to 10,600. DIY remains a risky activity, said Johanna Trauner-Karner, head of the Sports and Leisure Safety Department at KFV.
One In Five Accidents Caused By Ladders
According to a press release on Wednesday, one in five accidents is due to so-called “ladder accidents.” With 2,100 cases, this type of accident was the most frequent in 2024 and even reached a new record. “Just one centimeter out of balance is enough to make a ladder tip over,” warned Trauner-Karner. Other common accident causes include cutting tools (1,000 injuries), wooden splinters or boards (700), drills (500), and furniture items such as cabinets and dressers (500). In around 1,200 accidents, no specific objects were involved—falls were likely the main cause, KFV suggested.
Men Account For 82 Percent Of Cases
Between September and November, KFV recorded a total of 3,500 DIY accidents—about one-third of all cases in 2024. October was the most accident-prone month with 1,400 injuries, followed by September with 1,200 and November with 900. “The combination of shorter days and poor lighting conditions increases the risk of accidents,” said Trauner-Karner.
The most common injuries from DIY accidents are bone fractures (4,500), open wounds (3,500), and tendon or muscle injuries (900). Fingers (3,400 cases) and hands (1,400) are particularly affected. According to data from the KFV accident database, a typical DIY accident in Austria involves a man between 50 and 64 years old. This age group accounts for one-third of all cases. Overall, men make up 82 percent of all DIY accidents.
Overconfidence And Carelessness As Main Causes
The causes of accidents are often avoidable: More than 60 percent of those affected cite carelessness or distraction as the reason. A vivid example: A man wanted to carry out a repair on his window and climbed onto a swivel chair with wheels. The attempt ended with cuts and a torn tendon.
KFV therefore appeals to all DIY enthusiasts: Safety measures such as protective gloves, safety glasses, and the careful use of ladders can prevent many accidents. Equally important are concentration, realistic self-assessment, and good planning—since many accidents occur purely out of carelessness.
