Woodworking can be a rewarding craft, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you’re in a large industrial setting or a smaller workshop, the dust generated by cutting, sanding and shaping wood can accumulate quickly. If not controlled, this seemingly harmless dust can pose serious health risks. But what exactly is wood dust? Why is it dangerous, and how can it be controlled to protect the safety and wellbeing of workers? Let’s explore the answers to these questions, so that we can move toward building safer workplaces in the West Midlands.
Different types of wood dust in the workplace
Wood dust comes in various forms, depending on the type of wood being worked with. There are two main categories: hardwood and softwood. Hardwood dust originates from trees like oak, maple and walnut. These woods are often used in furniture manufacturing and flooring due to their durability. Softwood dust comes from other species of tress like pine, cedar and fir. In addition to natural wood dust, there’s also dust generated from composite materials like plywood, particleboard and MDF (medium-density fibreboard). These materials are often bonded with formaldehyde-based resins, meaning the dust can carry additional chemical risks.
The dangers of wood dust exposure
The need to control wood dust exposure stems from the significant health risks associated with inhaling fine particulate matter. Short-term exposure to wood dust can lead to immediate symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing and shortness of breath. However, the long-term risks are far more severe. Chronic exposure can cause occupational asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even cancer in extreme cases. Tiny particles of wood dust can contain bacterial, fungal and moss spores, which each pose additional health risks.
What does the law say about wood dust exposure?
In the UK the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations sets Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) for wood dust. The current WEL for hardwood dust is 3 mg/m³ over an 8-hour time-weighted average, and for softwood dust it’s 5 mg/m³. Failure to comply can lead to legal consequences, including fines and potential shutdowns. More importantly, non-compliance could result in serious harm to employees, which every responsible employer should work diligently to avoid.
Controlling wood dust exposure using LEV systems
One of the most effective ways to control wood dust exposure is through Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems. LEV systems are designed to capture dust as soon as it’s produced. This prevents the dust from spreading through the workplace and accumulating on surfaces. Once captured, the dust is carried through ducts to a filtration system that removes the particulates from the air. The cleaned air can then be recirculated back into the workplace or vented outside, depending on the system design.
How can we check that LEV controls are working?
LEV systems should be examined and tested at least once every 14 months by a competent person, as recommended by COSHH regulations. These checks ensure that systems remain efficient and continue to protect workers. So how can we evaluate the effectiveness of LEV systems?
- Airflow measurements: measuring the airflow at various points in the LEV system can indicate whether the system is operating within the required parameters. Reduced airflow could signal a blockage or failure in the system.
- Smoke tests: smoke or fog can be introduced into the system to visually check if the LEV is capturing dust at the source.
- Dust lamps: airborne wood dust is normally invisible to the naked eye. A dust lamp is a cheap and effective way of detecting dust, to find any leaks in the system.
- Routine inspections: regular visual inspections of the hoods, ducts and filters can help identify any wear, tear or damage that could affect performance.
RPE requirements for wood dust exposure
While LEV systems are a primary control measure, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) should also be used as a secondary line of defence, especially in environments where complete dust elimination is not possible. The type of RPE required depends on the level of exposure and the specific tasks being performed. In woodworking, the most common RPE is disposable masks and half-face or full-face respirators.
When selecting RPE, employers should consider several factors. RPE should fit the wearer properly to ensure a seal around the face. Fit testing is essential for all workers required to wear tight-fitting RPE. The chosen RPE should be appropriate for the level of exposure. For instance, a basic dust mask won’t suffice in high-exposure scenarios. RPE must also meet the required safety standards and be approved for use in the relevant work environment.
Keeping employees informed
Proper training helps employees understand the risks associated with wood dust and how to protect themselves effectively in the workplace. A good training programme should teach employees how to use LEV systems and recognise when systems are not working correctly. RPE should also be discussed, including how to fit and wear RPE correctly. Workers should be trained to perform basic checks on control systems and report any issues to management promptly. Large amounts of accumulated dust can pose a fire or explosion hazard, so workers could also be reminded that wood dust is not just a health issue but also a safety risk.
Final thoughts
Controlling wood dust exposure in the workplace is not just about compliance – it’s about safeguarding the health and wellbeing of employees. By understanding the risks, implementing proper controls, ensuring RPE is used correctly and providing thorough training, employers can create safer workplaces for all. If you would like advice or help on making your business safer, contact us today at info@mohs.co.uk or give us a call on 0121 601 4041.