Check if you are allergic to bee stings - approximately one person in 5,000 is seriously allergic to bees. Those who are mildly allergic can be vaccinated.
Buy and wear proper beekeeping gear - the only Dublin outlet for beekeepers' equipment is Tom Keogh at 106 North Circular Road, Dublin 7. Tel: 01 8386609
Never approach an apiary without having your beekeeping suit correctly zipped up.
Expect to build up your confidence in handling bees slowly and in the beginning always have someone else with you - preferably someone with more experience than yourself.