Wood Dust

Wood dust can trigger or worsen asthma, with carpenters and joiners four times more likely to develop asthmas than any other profession. Prolonged exposure to wood dust has been associated with an increased risk of nasal and sinus cancer, as well as causing skin irritation, dermatitis and eye irritation.

Exposure limits

For hardwood dust the Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) is 3mg/m3 based on an 8-hour time span.

For softwood dust the WEL limit is 5mg/m3 based on 8 hours.

Hardwood dust is considered more dangerous than softwood dust which is why the WEL limits are different. Both types of wood dust are classed as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)

Reducing the risks

There are many ways to reduce the levels of wood dust in the air, with the most effective being;

Substitution - Where possible, use materials that generate less dust or are less hazardous. For example, consider using pre-cut or pre-finished wood products.

Wet methods - Wood can be dampened with water before cutting or sanding to reduce the amount of dust in the air.

Work techniques - Employ work techniques that produce less dust, such as cutting with sharp blades and using hand tools instead of power tools when possible.

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems - LEV systems are a legal requirement in woodworking environments under COSHH Regulations

Dust extraction systems - Dust extraction systems aim to remove different types of dust particles from the air, including wood dust.

Air filtration units - Air filtration units with HEPA filters clean the air in general by removing particulates and contaminants, reducing airborne dust levels.

Ducting - Underfloor ducting systems collect dust directly from machinery and workstations. This helps to keep the floor area clear and reduces dust accumulation.

Overhead ducting is a way to capture dust from above, preventing it from settling on work surfaces and equipment.

Enclosures and barriers - Machines and processes that generate wood dust can be enclosed to contain wood dust. Physical barriers or air curtains can separate dusty operations from other work areas and direct airflow to prevent dust from spreading.

Work area design - Work areas can be designed so that dust accumulation is minimised and cleaning is much easier.

Housekeeping - Regular cleaning is important to remove accumulated dust from surfaces, floors and equipment. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters are more effective than dry sweeping or compressed air which can resuspend dust.

If you have any concerns in controlling wood dust in the workplace please get in touch on 01462 892021