Hazards Associated with Woodworking

Hazard

Risk Factor

Protection

organic dust inhalation (respiratory)

fine dust (less than 1 to 2.5 microns in diameter)

respirator, dust control

organic toxins intrinsic to wood (respiratory, ocular, dermal or gastrointestinal)

tropical woods

respirator and skin protection, dust control

chemical treatments (respiratory, ocular, dermal or gastrointestinal)

anti-rot chemicals in pressure treated wood

respirator and skin protection, dust control

organic allergens (respiratory, dermal or ocular)

respirator and skin protection, dust control

fungi or molds

moisture control, respirator

penetrating ocular trauma

sanding, cutting or trimming wood

safety glasses

electric shock

self-wiring of wood shop, frayed cord, improper grounding, moisture

inspection by electrician, proper grounding, water control

splinters

cutting or trimming wood

safety glasses, hand and forearm protection

blunt trauma from falling lumber or machine throw back

proper inventory control, proper safety equipment

sharp trauma

failure to use safety equipment

proper safety equipment

solvents and wood treatments (skin, CNS, liver)

unventilated or poorly ventilated work area; extensive skin contact; high environmental temperature

respirator, proper ventilation

fall injury

unsteady ladder, makeshift step, clutter

ladder safety, organized equipment and inventory

fire

smoking, overheated equipment, cluttered and dusty

fire extinguisher