Woodworking industry - 676 entries found

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2005

CIS 06-470 Bovenzi M., Della Vedova A., Nataletti P., Alessandrini B., Poian T.
Work-related disorders of the upper limb in female workers using orbital sanders
This case-control study of the prevalence of vascular, neurological and musculoskeletal disorders of the upper limb involved a group of 100 women performing either mechanical or hand sanding in the furniture industry and a control group of 100 female office workers. All participants underwent a medical interview and a complete physical investigation. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of Raynaud's phenomenon between the furniture workers and the controls, while the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), peripheral sensorineural disturbances and upper-limb musculoskeletal complaints was significantly greater in the furniture workers. A CTS was clinically diagnosed in 19% of the furniture workers and 8% of the controls. Findings suggest a significant association between occupational use of vibratory tools and soft-tissue disorders in the upper limbs of female workers.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, May 2005, Vol.78, No.4, p.303-310. 49 ref.

CIS 06-223 Mirka G.A.
Development of an ergonomics guideline for the furniture manufacturing industry
The American Furniture Manufacturers Association has developed ergonomic guidelines for its members in the form of a document that includes basic information as well as a compilation of best practices submitted by members of the furniture manufacturing community. This voluntary guidance was developed through an industry-research-government partnership and made strategic use of the unique attributes that each sector brought to this effort. This article outlines some of the characteristics of the partnership including the roles played by each, the different motivations for pursuing the guidelines, the challenges faced during the development of the document, the successes experienced in this process and a proposed outline for measuring the effectiveness of this effort.
Applied Ergonomics, Mar. 2005, Vol.36, No.2, p.241-247. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 06-175 Goglia V., Grbac I
Whole-body vibration transmitted to the framesaw operator
This article analyzes the results of measurements of whole-body vibration transmitted to framesaw operators during ordinary working days at one sawmill in Croatia. For all measurements, frequency spectra were obtained and represented according to the recommendations of ISO standard 2631-1-1986. The duration of each single framesaw operation was measured and the accelerations and energy-equivalent vibration levels were calculated. Results showed that framesaw operators are exposed to vibration levels in excess of the daily exposure limits established in the ISO standard.
Applied Ergonomics, Jan. 2005, Vol.36, No.1, p.43-48. Illus. 15 ref.

2004

CIS 08-527 Mahieu J.C.
Dust in the nook of the woods
Les poussières au coin du bois [in French]
Dusts formed during woodworking can affect human health, either by contact or inhalation. This leaflet recalls the preventive measures against exposure to wood dust and includes the table of occupational diseases caused by wood dust that are recognized in France.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, June 2004. 6p. Illus. Price: EUR 1.50. Downloadable version free of charge.
http://www.inrs.fr/inrs-pub/inrs01.nsf/intranetobject-accesparreference/ed%20729/$file/ed729.pdf [in French]

CIS 06-529 Wood dust
Les poussières au coin du bois [in French]
Illustrated pamphlet for use in training courses and aimed at workers in the woodworking industry. It describes the health hazards of wood dust, explains how to evaluate and control wood dust hazards and highlights the need for medical supervision. Includes a list of recognized occupational diseases caused by wood dust.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité (INRS), 30, rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed. 2004. 6p. Illus.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/IntranetObject-accesParReference/ED+729/$File/ed729.pdf [in French]

CIS 06-325 Jones T., Kumar S.
Occupational injuries and illnesses in the sawmill industry of Alberta
A comprehensive Workers Compensation Board of Alberta claims database for the sawmill industry describing 3779 claims was analysed for the years 1997-2002. A total of 48,025 days were lost as a result of injury and total claims costs were over eight million Canadian dollars. The majority of injuries resulting in claims were experienced by males 24-35 years of age with one to six months of work experience. Musculoskeletal injuries were the most common type of injury (46.7%). The upper extremity was the most frequently injured region of the body (45.5%). The majority of claims (54.5%) were defined as lost time claims and 46% as medical aid only. Incidence rates are compared with those reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2004, Vol.33, No.5, p.415-427. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 06-356 Karoly W.J., Flatley J.J., Stevenson R.D., Bowers J.D.
Airborne concentrations of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) in North American wood mills during the manufacturing of oriented strand board (OSB)
Air samples were taken to determine the effectiveness of control measures used in oriented strand board (OSB) mills to prevent fugitive emissions of wood dust, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and MDI-coated wood dust. Personal sampling results (578 samples covering 11 job categories) ranged from 0.0002 to 0.524mg/m³, and area sampling results (1657 samples covering 14 stationary locutions in the mills) ranged from 0.0002 to 2.5mg/m³. Over 97% of the personal and 92% of the area sampling results were below 0.051mg/m³. Wipe testing was performed to determine the presence of unreacted diisocyanates from various surfaces. Positive results were found in about 13% of the wipe tests on surfaces in process areas.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, Dec. 2004, Vol.1, No.12, p.789-798. Illus. 20 ref.

CIS 05-354 McBride D., Nelsen K.
Wood dust exposure in small New Zealand woodworking companies
This study investigates wood dust exposure in small woodworking companies in New Zealand. 58 employees of 14 companies underwent personal respirable dust sampling and completed a self-administered exposure assessment questionnaire. 26 participants had exposure levels exceeding the New Zealand recommended workplace exposure standard of 5mg/m³. Although the survey size was small, dust exposure in small workplaces appears to be greater than that in large workplaces. Preventive measures include modern local exhaust ventilation, better cleaning procedures and the use of respiratory protective equipment during high-risk processes.
Journal of Occupational Health and Safety - Australia and New Zealand, Oct.2004, Vol.20, No.5, p.465-472. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 05-134 Occupational safety and health manual - Furniture industry
Manual de segurança e saúde no trabalho - Indústria moveleira [in Portuguese]
This manual covers the occupational safety and health aspects specific to the furniture industry in Brazil. It is based on the results of a literature survey as well as a field study carried out in 30 representative enterprises by a multidisciplinary team. It specifies the hazards that are to be found within this industry and proposes preventive measures aimed at protecting the workers and improving productivity. Contents: segmentation of the furniture industry; risk factors and control methods; enterprise safety and hygiene committees; preparation of hazard cards; fire prevention and fire fighting brigade; environmental hazard prevention programme; medical supervision programme; hearing protection programme; advice on how to train workers to use personal protective equipment; legal aspects.
Serviço Social da Indústria (SESI), Departamento Regional de São Paulo, CEP 01311-923, São Paulo, SP, Brazil, 2004. 390p. Illus. 135 ref. Index.

CIS 04-556 Bertrand O., Ulrich G., Rivière G., Gressier V., Berr C., Petiet G.
Ethmoid adenocarcinoma in a patient manufacturing orthopaedic shoe soles made of cork - Considerations based on a case
Carcinome de l'ethmoïde chez un patient fabricant des semelles de chaussures orthopédiques en liège - A propos d'un cas [in French]
Ethmoid adenocarcinoma is recognized as a professional disease in wood workers, especially those in contact with fine hardwood dust. The main carcinogenic agent responsible is represented by the tannins contained in various wood species. This is also the case for cork, which can contain up to 6% of tannins. Considering that 40,000 French workers are currently exposed to cork dust, it is recommended that the same medical supervision procedures as those in place in the woodworking sector should be adopted. This article describes a case of muco-secretant adenocarcinoma infiltrating the right nasal cavity in a 57 year-old patient who manufactured orthopaedic shoes. From 1965 to 2001, the worker handled leather, rubber, adhesives and cork without effective protection against cork dust. The occupational nature of the disease was recognized.
Archives des maladies professionnelles et de médecine du travail, Mar. 2004, Vol.65, No.1, p.25-29. 19 ref.

CIS 04-647 Goyer N., Bégin D., Bouchard M., Buissonnet S., Carrier G., Gely O., Gérin M., Lavoué J., Lefebvre P., Noisel N., Perrault G., Roberge B.
Impacts of the lowering of the permissible exposure value for formaldehyde - Wooden furniture manufacturing industry
Impacts d'un abaissement de la valeur d'exposition admissible au formaldéhyde - Industrie de la fabrication de meubles en bois [in French]
The objective of this study was to assess the number of workers in the wooden furniture manufacturing industry in Quebec that would be exposed to excessive formaldehyde concentration levels and the cost of compliance per worker as a function of the various possible threshold limit values under consideration. This specific study was carried out within the framework of a large research programme aimed at evaluating the health and socio-economic impacts of lowering the current maximum permissible exposure value for formaldehyde of 2ppm to one of the values of 1.0, 0.75 or 0.3ppm, either as maximum or 8-hr time-weighted average values (see CIS 04-642 to 04-646, CIS 04-648 to 04-651 and CIS 04-653 to 04-655).
Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. 50p. 35 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/RA5-386.pdf [in French]

CIS 04-646 Goyer N., Beaudry C., Bégin D., Bouchard M., Buissonnet S., Carrier G., Gely O., Gérin M., Gravel R., Hébert F., Lavoué J., Lefebvre P., Noisel N., Perrault G., Roberge B.
Impacts of the lowering of the permissible exposure value for formaldehyde - Other wood industries
Impacts d'un abaissement de la valeur d'exposition admissible au formaldéhyde - Autres industries du bois [in French]
The objective of this study was to assess the number of workers in the wood product industries other than furniture and particle-board manufacture in Quebec that would be exposed to excessive formaldehyde concentration levels and the cost of compliance per worker as a function of the various possible threshold limit values under consideration. This specific study was carried out within the framework of a large research programme aimed at evaluating the health and socio-economic impacts of lowering the current maximum permissible exposure value for formaldehyde of 2ppm to one of the values of 1.0, 0.75 or 0.3ppm, either as maximum or 8-hr time-weighted average values (see CIS 04-642 to 04-645, CIS 04-647 to 04-651 and CIS 04-653 to 04-655).
Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. 49p. Illus. 28 ref. Price: CAD 5.35. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/RA4-386.pdf. [in French]

CIS 04-645 Goyer N., Beaudry C., Bégin D., Bouchard M., Buissonnet S., Carrier G., Duguay P., Gely O., Gérin M., Hébert F., Lavoué J., Lefebvre P., Noisel N., Pellerin E., Perrault G., Roberge B.
Impacts of the lowering of the permissible exposure value for formaldehyde - Particle-board manufacturing industry
Impacts d'un abaissement de la valeur d'exposition admissible au formaldéhyde - Industrie de la fabrication de panneaux agglomérés [in French]
The objective of this study was to assess the number of workers in the particle-board manufacturing industry in Quebec that would be exposed to excessive formaldehyde concentration levels and cost of compliance per worker as a function of the various possible threshold limit values under consideration. This specific study was carried out within the framework of a large research programme aimed at evaluating the health and socio-economic impacts of lowering the current maximum permissible exposure value for formaldehyde of 2ppm to one of the values of 1.0, 0.75 or 0.3ppm, either as maximum or 8-hr time-weighted average values (see CIS 04-642 to 04-644, CIS 04-646 to 04-651 and CIS 04-653 to 04-655).
Institut de recherche en santé et en sécurité du travail du Québec (IRSST), 505 boul. de Maisonneuve Ouest, Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3C2, Canada, 2004. 97p. Illus. 46 ref. Price: CAD 8.56. Downloadable version (PDF format) free of charge.
http://www.irsst.qc.ca/files/documents/PubIRSST/RA3-386.pdf [in French]

CIS 04-170 Auffarth J., Hebisch R., Karmann J.
Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin
Exposure to harmful substances during furniture production
Stoffbelastungen bei der Möbelherstellung [in German]
Workers' exposure to hazardous substances during furniture production was determined in twelve small and three industrial-scale enterprises. Workplace measurements were carried out during both manual and automatic processing of wood and wood-based materials, as well as during the use of solvents. Results show that workers were mainly exposed to wood dust. Other respirable dusts as well as alveolar fraction contribute to workers' exposure to a far lesser extent. The occupational exposure limit for inhalable wood dust was frequently exceeded during manual grinding. Less-frequent excessive exposures were also observed during the mechanical processing of wood, mainly in the small enterprises. Industrial scale enterprises however have the ability to control the problem of wood dust. Exposures to solvent vapours occurred mainly during spray painting and cauterization, however remaining within occupational exposure limits.
Wirtschaftsverlag NW, Postfach 10 11 10, 27511 Bremerhaven, Germany, 2004. 112p. Illus. 22 ref. Price: EUR 13.00.

CIS 03-1791 Lefèvre A., L'Huillier J.C., Muller J.P.
Device for collecting dust from radial saws - CASIR - Technical report
Dispositif de captage de poussières pour scie radiale - CASIR - Dossier technique [in French]
Woodworking or the machining of wood-based composite materials generates dust which is dispersed in the workplace air and which may be inhaled by the workers. Radial saws in particular can be very polluting if not equipped with an efficient local exhaust system. Consequently, the improvement of working conditions often requires changing the existing exhaust systems. This technical report describes an improved dust exhaust system which prevents the dispersion of dust, and presents the results of workplace airborne dust measurements with radial saws equipped with either standard exhaust systems or with the improved system. It also includes all technical details and drawings needed to install such a system.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2004. 30p. Illus.

CIS 03-1777 Díaz Morán N.
Prevention of hazards due to exposure to hardwood dust
Prevención de riesgos derivados de la exposición a polvo de maderas duras [in Spanish]
This article discusses the hazards from exposure to hardwood dust and presents the broad outline of a plan of preventive actions. Contents: characteristics and classification of woods; health effects of exposure to wood dust (respirable particles, threshold limit values, results of epidemiological studies); plan of preventive actions (local exhaust systems, general ventilation, methods of work that limit the generation of dust, personal protective equipment, medical supervision).
Prevención, Jan.-Mar. 2004, No.167, p.8-19. Illus. 17 ref.

2003

CIS 07-952
Health and Safety Executive
Beam panel saws
This information sheet describes hazards and precautions in the use of travelling rise and fall crosscut saws used to cut panel boards. Advice is given on the guarding of the saw and blade clamp, saw housings, cutting area and panel handling equipment, the use of photo-electric guarding, maintenance and the need for training in safe working methods. Replaces CIS 91-514.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2003. 2p. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis3.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-700
Health and Safety Executive
Noise at woodworking machines
Some of the noisiest working environments are found in the woodworking industries. Noise levels can vary widely from machine to machine depending on conditions of use. This information note explains what can be done by the manufacturers and suppliers of woodworking machines as well as by purchasers and users of these equipments to reduce both noise emission at source and exposure.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, May 2003. 4p. 15 ref.

CIS 06-678 Wood dust: Hazards and precautions
This information sheet describes the safety and heath hazards associated with exposure to wood dust and the legal requirements for the control or prevention of exposure. Wood dust has been assigned maximum exposure limits of 5mg/m³ (8 hr TWA) under the British COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations. Hardwood dust is defined as a carcinogen. Fire and explosion hazards are also described. Recommendations are given for dust control measures, assessment of health risks, fire and explosion precautions and cleaning of workplaces. Replaces previous edition (CIS 01-1184).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, rev. ed., Dec. 2003. 2p. 13 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis1.pdf [in English]

CIS 04-218 Lamoureux P.
Non-portable rotor or rosser-head debarkers
Ecorceuses stationnaires à rotor ou à fraise [in French]
Aimed at all persons involved in safety in the woodworking sector, this safety information sheet examines the hazards linked to debarkers and their means of prevention. Contents: function; description; main features; conditions of acquisition, reception, layout and installation; conditions of use of existing machines; guidance on the safe start-up, use and maintenance.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 2003, No.191, p.75-93. Illus. 26 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/INRS-PUB/inrs01.nsf/inrs01_search_view_view/1CBBEF72245761EAC1256DC10049C953/$FILE/nd2193.pdf [in French]

CIS 03-1778 Rosenberg N.
Occupational respiratory allergies caused by wood dust
Allergies respiratoires professionnelles provoquées par les poussières de bois [in French]
Woodworking is a known cause of respiratory allergy risk. High-speed revolving machines produce large amounts of easily-inhalable fine dust, which when deposited at all levels in the respiratory tract may cause nose, bronchial and lung symptoms. Moulds, bacteria and bacterial endotoxins which grow on wood parts stored in the premises, together with substances used for wood treatment present additional respiratory hazards. Contents of this article on occupational respiratory allergies caused by wood dust: physiopathology; prevalence among exposed occupational groups; diagnosis in occupational settings; confirmation of diagnosis in specialized institutions; development; prevention; compensation.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 4th Quarter 2003, No.96, p.501-510. 86 ref.

CIS 03-1792 Lefèvre A.
Device for collecting dust from narrow-band sanding machines - CAPEA - Technical report
Dispositif de captage de poussières pour ponceuse à bande étroite - CAPEA - Dossier technique [in French]
Woodworking generates dust which is dispersed in the workplace air and which may be inhaled by the workers. Narrow-band sanding machines in particular can be very polluting if not equipped with an efficient local exhaust system. This technical report describes an improved dust exhaust system which prevents the dispersion of dust, and presents the results of workplace airborne dust measurements on a sanding machine equipped with this system.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Apr. 2003. 15p. Illus.

CIS 03-1838
Health and Safety Executive
LEV: Dust capture at fixed drum and disc sanding machines
This information sheet provides guidance for the design of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) fitted to fixed drum and disc sanding machines, and is aimed at machine designers and users, as well as at designers, installers and users of LEV systems. Contents: appropriate LEVs for drum sanders and disc sanders.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Sep. 2003. 2p. Illus. 5 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis26.htm [in English]

CIS 03-1837
Health and Safety Executive
LEV: Dust capture at sawing machines
This information sheet provides guidance for the design of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) fitted to sawing machines, and is aimed at machine designers and users, as well as at designers, installers and users of LEV systems. Contents: appropriate LEVs for circular bench saws, travelling cross-cut saws and band saws.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2003. 2p. Illus. 5 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis24.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-867 Koehncke N., Taylor M., Taylor C., Harman L., Hessel P.A., Beaulne P., Guidotti T.
An investigation of noise levels in Alberta sawmills
This study documents the level of noise exposure in nine sawmills in the province of Alberta, Canada. 213 personal noise monitoring measurements were carried out. Only 10% of the personal monitoring measurements were below the Alberta 8-hr exposure limit of 85dBA. 27% of the personal monitoring measurements were 95dBA or higher. Worker enclosures played a large role in reducing noise exposure. There were no significant differences between seasons in noise category distributions. The planer and planer infeed operators had the highest percentage of personal monitoring measurements 95dBA or higher (62% and 82%, respectively). Based on conservative noise attenuation criteria, a risk of excess noise exposure could exist even when wearing required hearing protection due to very high noise levels found in planing operations in sawmills.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2003, Vol.43, No.2, p.156-164. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 03-379
Health and Safety Executive
Safe collection of woodwaste: Prevention of fire and explosion
This information note provides practical guidance to manufacturers, suppliers and users of woodwaste collection systems on the reduction of fire and explosion risks. Contents: hazards of wood dust; explosibility of woodwaste; sources of ignition; types of collection systems; design of ductwork; precautions for collection units where a dust explosion risk exists; sizing of explosion relief; design of explosion vents; ducting of vents to the open air; firefighting. Reprinted with updated references (replaces CIS 97-1313).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Jan. 2003. 4p. Illus. 6 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis32.pdf [in English]

2002

CIS 04-161 Mikkelsen A.B., Schlünssen V., Sigsgaard T., Schaumburg I.
Determinants of wood dust exposure in the Danish furniture industry
In this study of the relation between wood dust exposure in the Danish furniture industry and occupational hygiene variables, 54 factories were visited and 2362 personal breathing air samples were collected. It was found that the geometric mean of dust concentration was 0.95mg/m³, with a standard deviation of 2.08. A multivariate analysis revealed that manual and automatic sanding and the use of compressed air with fully automatic and semi-automatic machines increased exposure to dust. Decreased dust exposure resulted from the use of compressed air with manual machines, working at fully automatic or semi-automatic machines, functioning exhaust ventilation, work on the night shift, daily cleaning of rooms, cleaning of work pieces with a brush, vacuum cleaning of machines, supplementary fresh air supply and a safety representative elected within the last two years. The implications of these findings for the prevention of wood dust exposure are discussed.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 2002, Vol.46, No.8, p.673-685. Illus. 42 ref.

CIS 03-1421 Lamoureux P.
Riving knives for circular saws
Couteaux diviseurs pour scies circulaires [in French]
The riving knife is a safety component of circular-saw woodworking machines. By avoiding the kick-back of the wood workpiece, it protects the operator. Aimed at safety specialists and users of circular-saw woodworking machines, this information sheet presents a synthesis of data relevant to the safe use of this type of equipment. Contents: introduction; scope of use; regulations and standardization; guidance for the design and mounting of riving knives.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2002. 4p. Illus. 2 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/htm/couteaux_diviseurs_pour_scies_circulaires.html [in French]

CIS 03-649 Barton J.C., Cheatwood S.M., Key T.J., Acton R.T.
Hemochromatosis detection in a health screening program at an Alabama forest products mill
This article analyses the haemochromatosis detection data from a long-term health screening program at a forest products mill. There were 2199 participants: 2032 whites (1506 men, 526 women) and 167 African Americans (124 men, 43 women). Iron and transferrin saturation were measured serum after overnight fasting; ferritin was measured in participants with elevated iron concentrations or transferrin saturation >48%. Participants with elevated ferritin levels underwent further evaluation. Eight white men were diagnosed to have haemochromatosis (frequency 0.0039 in whites, 0.0053 in white men). The estimated cost per case detected was USD 8826. It is concluded that detecting haemochromatosis in a workplace health screening program is efficacious and economical.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2002, Vol.44, No.8, p.745-751. 56 ref.

CIS 03-922
Health and Safety Executive
PUWER 98: Selection of tooling for use with hand-fed woodworking machines
This information note provides guidance on the selection of moulding and profiling tools for use on hand-fed woodworking machines to comply with the U.K. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER, see CIS 99-1429). Contents: legal requirements; limited cuter projection tooling; compliance with current requirement; tool fixing; tool sharpening and maintenance; tool marking and identification. Replaces CIS 99-2057.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Feb. 2002. 4p. Illus. 11 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis37.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-920 Lamoureux P.
Simple vertical axis spindle moulders - Safety devices
Toupies verticales simples: équipements de sécurité [in French]
Vertical axis spindle moulders are classified as being dangerous machines. However, various devices can make their use less risky. This practical data sheet presents these devices (anti-kickback cutter blocks, jigs, conveyors, table extensions with sweep plates, anti-kickback backstop rails, holding devices, continuous guides, push-sticks), and enables the selection of the most suited device depending on the specific tasks.
Travail et sécurité, Mar. 2002, No.616, insert. 4p. Illus.

CIS 03-421 Lamoureux P., Otter B., Trivin J.Y.
Surface planing machines
Dégauchisseuses [in French]
Aimed at company owners, managers and supervisors, this technical safety data sheet examines the risk at surface planing machine workplaces, and proposes ways of preventing them. Contents: function; terminology; description; conditions of purchase, taking delivery, laying out, installing and using surface planing machines; conditions applicable to machines already in service. Replaces CIS 75-851.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2002, No.189, p.45-57. Illus. 19 ref.
http://www.inrs.fr/htm/degauchisseuses.html [in French]

CIS 02-1830 Rongo L.M.B., Besselink A., Douwes J., Barten F., Msamanga G.I., Dolmans W.M.V., Demers P.A., Heederik D.
Respiratory symptoms and dust exposure among male workers in small-scale wood industries in Tanzania
Few studies have assessed respiratory symptoms and dust exposure levels in small-scale wood industry workers in Africa. In this study, 546 Tanzanian workers exposed to wood dust and 565 unexposed controls were interviewed using a respiratory health questionnaire. Inhalable dust measurements were collected in the breathing air of 106 workers. The dust exposure was high, and job title-based geometric mean exposure levels ranged from 2.9 to 22.8mg/m³. Prevalence of respiratory symptoms in the previous 12 months was significantly higher in the exposed group compared with the controls. Allergy and sensitivity symptoms were reported regularly in the exposed group with odds ratios varying from 2.4 for low- and 2.7 for high-exposure groups compared with controls. It is concluded that working in the small-scale wood industry in Tanzania is associated with an increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Dec. 2002, Vol.44, No.12, p.1153-1160. 25 ref.

CIS 02-1796 Takeuchi A., Kawai T., Zhang Z.W., Miyama Y., Sakamoto K., Higashikawa K., Ikeda M.
Toluene, xylenes and xylene isomers in urine as biological indicators of low-level exposure to each solvent: A comparative study
The objective of this study was to determine if xylenes and xylene isomers in end-of-shift urine are good biological indicators of low-level exposure to each solvent, similarly to toluene in urine. 86 furniture makers (76 men and ten women), participated in the study together with 11 non-exposed controls. Time-weighted average (8h TWA) exposures to mixtures of toluene, xylenes, ethylbenzene and acetone were monitored with diffusive samplers for lipophilic and hydrophilic solvents, respectively. Urine samples were collected at the end of the shift and subjected to head-space gas chromatography analysis for each solvent. The exposure-excretion relationship was examined by simple as well as multiple regression analysis. Good correlations were found, indicating that biological monitoring of exposure by means of analysis of end-of-shift urine is possible, not only in the case of toluene as previously reported, but also in cases of xylenes, either for three isomers in combination or separately.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 2002, Vol.75, No.6, p.387-393. Illus. 29 ref.

CIS 02-1689 Schlünssen V., Schaumburg I., Taudorf E., Mikkelsen A.B., Sigsgaard T.
Respiratory symptoms and lung function among Danish woodworkers
A cross-sectional study including 54 furniture factories and three control factories was conducted in order to analyse lung function and the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among woodworkers. Spirometry was performed on 2423 persons. Questionnaires regarding respiratory symptoms and wood dust exposure were completed by 2033 woodworkers and 474 controls. Personal passive dust measurements were performed on 1579 persons. It was found that inhalable dust levels were relatively low (1.19±0.86mg/m³). Woodworkers had increased frequency of coughing. A dose-response relationship was observed between dust exposure and asthma symptoms, and a positive interaction for asthma was seen between female gender and dust exposure. Increased frequency of wheezing and a cross-shift decrease in one-second forced expiratory volume among workers using pinewood was seen. In conclusion, wood dust exposure may cause respiratory symptoms, even at relatively low exposure levels.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Jan. 2002, Vol.44, No.1, p.82-98. 56 ref.

CIS 02-1767 Muller J.P., L'Huillier J.C.
Design of efficient exhaust devices for radial saws and numerically-controlled routers
Conception de dispositifs de captage performants sur scie radiale et défonceuse à commande numérique [in French]
This article describes a novel approach for the design of wood dust collection devices applied to two machines, a radial saw with manual feed and a numerically-controlled router. The original exhaust device of each machine was assessed, and the functions, machining configurations and constraints that the new devices had to satisfy were evaluated. Exhaust solutions of reasonable cost when compared to the cost of the machines were developed and tested, for both a simple and a complex machine. Several exhaust device prototypes for radial saws were built with a view of testing them on other existing models of machines. The pivoting device developed for the router will however require case-by-case assessments on its suitability for existing machines. This approach could be applied by manufacturers of new machines.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 3rd Quarter 2002, No.188, p.53-69. Illus. 10 ref.

CIS 02-1828 Estill C.F., Watkins D.F., Shulman S.A., Kurimo R.W., Kovein R.J.
Engineering controls for furniture strippers to meet the OSHA methylene chloride PEL
This case study demonstrates how methylene chloride exposures during furniture stripping can be reduced to below the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 25ppm (as an eight-hour time-weighted average). Five surveys were conducted at one facility; the first four resulted in employee exposure geometric means from 39 to 332ppm. For the fifth survey, local exhaust ventilation was used at the stripping tank and the rinsing area, which together exhausted 138m³/min. Additional control measures were taken, including the provision of adequate make-up air, addition of paraffin wax to the stripping solution, raising the level of the stripping solution in the tank and discussion of good work practices with the employees. The employees' methylene chloride exposures during the fifth survey resulted in a geometric mean of 5.6ppm with a 95% upper confidence limit of 8.3ppm, which was found to be significantly lower than the OSHA PEL and the OSHA action level of 12.5ppm. The cost of the ventilation system was USD 8900.
AIHA Journal, May-June 2002, Vol.63, No.3, p.326-333. Illus. 16 ref.

CIS 02-959 Mirka G.A., Smith C., Shivers C., Taylor J.
Ergonomic interventions for the furniture manufacturing industry. Part II - Handtools
Analysis of OSHA Form 200 data (notification of occupational diseases) and surveys of furniture industry workers revealed that upholsterers, workers who use sanders and workers who use spray guns are at higher levels of risk of upper extremity injury illness than the rest of the working population. An on-site ergonomic analysis of these three jobs was performed, highlighting a number of risk factors (repetitive work, high grip forces, ulnar wrist deviations and wrist flexion). Engineering interventions in the form of new or modified hand tools were then evaluated in the laboratory to assess their effectiveness in reducing exposure to these risk factors. Each of these modified tools and methods was compared with the standard methods typically used in industry. The results show that most of the intended beneficial effects were realized, with significant reductions in hand muscle activities, ulnar deviations and wrist flexions. See also CIS 02-958.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2002, Vol.29, No.5, p.275-287. Illus. 23 ref.

CIS 02-958 Mirka G.A., Smith C., Shivers C., Taylor J.
Ergonomic interventions for the furniture manufacturing industry. Part I - Lift assist devices
The objectives of this intervention research project were to develop and evaluate engineering controls for the reduction of low back injury risk in workers in the furniture manufacturing industry. An analysis of injury and illness records and survey data identified upholsterers and workers in the machine room as two occupations within the industry at elevated risk for low back injury. A detailed ergonomic evaluation of the activities performed by these workers was performed and the high risk subtasks involving high physical workloads and awkward postures were identified. Engineering interventions were developed and evaluated in the laboratory to document the reduction of exposure to these stressors. These interventions included a height-adjustable workbench for upholstery workers and a machine-room lift. They enabled reductions in physical workload and awkward postures. The machine-room lift also had a positive impact on the time necessary to complete the task. See also CIS 02-959.
International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, May 2002, Vol.29, No.5, p.263-273. Illus. 27 ref.

CIS 02-844 Rosenberg C., Liukkonen T., Kallas-Tarpila T., Ruonakangas A., Ranta R., Nurminen M., Welling I., Jäppinen P.
Monoterpene and wood dust exposures: Work-related symptoms among Finnish sawmill workers
This study was carried out on 22 Finnish sawmill workers who processed pine and spruce between 1997 and 1999. Exposure to monoterpenes was assessed by determining monoterpenes in air and verbenols in urine. A questionnaire was used to evaluate work-related subjective symptoms. The highest monoterpene concentration in the breathing zone, measured during processing of pine, was less than one fourth of the Finnish occupational exposure limit (OEL, 570mg/m³). Verbenol concentrations in post-shift urine samples reflected accurately the exposure to monoterpenes. The concentrations of inhalable dust were less than one-half the Finnish OEL (5mg/m³). No significant differences in dust exposure were observed among tree species processed. Work-related eye, skin and respiratory symptoms appeared to correlate with monoterpene exposure during processing of pine and with wood dust exposure during processing of spruce.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Jan. 2002, Vol.41, No.1, p.38-53. Illus. 48 ref.

CIS 02-925 Mattiuzzo C.
Machine safety and ergonomics from the user's perspective
Machinensicherheit und Ergonomie aus der Sicht der Benutzer [in German]
Sécurité des machines et ergonomie: le point de vue des utilisateurs [in French]
This article describes a cooperative project in Italy involving government bodies, occupational physicians and employer and employee representatives aimed at integrating the experience of machine operators for the purposes of standardization. The study was carried out in the woodworking industry, with particular emphasis on two types of machines, routers and circular saws. The objectives included developing a systematic method for recording the experience of users of these machines, to better identify the hazards and prevention possibilities, and to compile the list of suggestions aimed at improving the harmonized standards applicable to these machines. Besides making it possible to recommend improved methods of work organization, the project enabled the formulation of specific proposals for improving the harmonized standards EN 1870-1 and EN 848-1.
KANBRIEF, Verein zur Förderung der Arbeitssicherheit in Europa e.V., Kommission Arbeitsschutz und Normung (KAN), Geschäftsstelle, Alte Heerstrasse 111, 53757 Sankt Augustin, Germany, 2002, No.2, p.14-16. Illus. 3 ref.

2001

CIS 07-701
Health and Safety Executive
Noise enclosure at band re-saws
This information sheet describes the construction of a noise enclosure built on a timber frame with a sound attenuating cladding and a sound absorbent lining. Advice is given on the design of feed and delivery openings, access doors and viewing panels, the provision of ventilation for air-cooled equipment, and the location of some controls outside the enclosure. Reprinted with updated references (replaces CIS 91-516).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 2p. Illus. 4 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis5.pdf [in English]

CIS 07-678
Health and Safety Executive
Hardwood dust survey
The COSHH Regulations 1999 (see CIS 00-620) set a maximum exposure limit (MEL) of 5mg/m³ for hardwood dust in the woodworking industry. A survey was conducted in 1988/89 to investigate exposure levels in this industry. The results showed that in only 5 out of 41 factories the levels were all below the MEL and in only 13 the levels were all below twice the MEL (10mg/m³). Of the 363 air samples taken, 60% were below the MEL, 17% were between 5 and 10mg/m³, 14% between 10 and 20mg/m³ and 3% above 40mg/m³.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 2p. 9 ref.

CIS 03-1793 Lefèvre A., Lamoureux P., Muller J.P.
Device for collecting dust from woodworking band saws - YOTA - Technical report
Dispositif d'aspiration pour scie à ruban de menuiserie - YOTA - Dossier technique [in French]
Woodworking generates dust which is dispersed in the workplace air and which may be inhaled by the workers. Following a brief description of dust local exhaust systems that generally equip band saws in particular, this technical report presents a dust exhaust system developed by the INRS, characterized by an enclosure which directs the dust towards an aspiration duct, together with the results of workplace airborne dust measurements with band saws equipped with various exhaust systems, including that developed by the INRS. It also includes all technical details and drawings needed to install such a system.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, Jan. 2001. 19p. Illus.

CIS 03-1304 Schlünssen V., Vinzents P.S., Mikkelsen A.B., Schaumburg I.
Wood dust exposure in the Danish furniture industry using conventional and passive monitors
A cross-sectional study of wood dust exposure was performed at furniture factories in a Danish county. Dust exposure was measured with passive dust monitors and measurements were calibrated against active sampling on filters, the aim being to compare passive monitor measurements with traditional filter method measurements. The results were not significantly different for equivalent concentrations of inhalable dust and total dust. The parameters of the distribution of equivalent concentration of inhalable dust were 0.94mg/m³ (geometric mean) and 2.10 (geometric standard deviation). Compared with a national cross sectional study from 1988, the exposure level (geometric mean) was reduced by a factor of two.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Mar. 2001, Vol.45, No.2, p. 157-164. Illus. 32 ref.

CIS 03-1423
Health and Safety Executive
Safe use of power-operated cross-cut saws
Power-operated cross-cut saws cause many major injuries every year. HSE inspectors investigated 78 serious accidents over a ten-year period. This information note is based on an analysis of the reported causes of theses accidents and measures which could have been taken to prevent them. Topics covered: legal requirements for safeguarding; guards for semi-automatic machines (machines where the saw spindle is above or below the table); guards for automatic machines; safe working practices; training; other hazards related to power-operated cross-cut saws which should be reduced (noise, dust). Reprinted with updated references (replaces CIS 99-2055).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 4p. Illus. 9 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis35.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1422
Health and Safety Executive
Safe use of manually operated cross-cut saws
HSE inspectors investigated 276 serious accidents at manually operated cross-cut saws over a ten-year period. This information note is based on an analysis of the reported causes of these accidents and the measures which could have been taken to prevent them. Topics covered: legal requirements for safeguarding; guards for horizontal-stroking machines; guards for down-stroking machines; fence and work-piece support; specific operations (ripping, trenching, pointing stakes); safe working practices; machine maintenance and adjustment; training and instruction. Reprinted with updated references (replaces CIS 99-2056).
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 4p. Illus. 5 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis36.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-1332
Health and Safety Executive
Health risks during furniture stripping using dichloromethane (DCM)
This information sheet is concerned with the use of dichloromethane (DCM) as a paint stripper for wood. Contents include: DCM paint stripping process; health hazards; legal duties of employers; preventing and controlling exposure; special precautions during brush application and use of a dip tank; protective equipment; air sampling; risks for customers; dealing with spills; welfare facilities. Replaces CIS 00-1417.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 4p. Illus. 13 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis19.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-790 Vinzents P.S., Schlünssen V., Feveile H., Schaumburg I.
Variations in exposure to inhalable wood dust in the Danish furniture industry. Within- and between-worker and factory components estimated from passive dust sampling
Variability of exposure to wood dust at large factories in the Danish furniture industry was studied. Three repeated exposure measurements of 292 workers at 38 factories were included in the study. The measurements were carried out by use of personal passive dust monitors. The components of variance were estimated by means of a random effects ANOVA model. The ratio of within- to between-worker variance was 1.07. Based on this result and three repeated exposure measurements, the observed relation between health outcome and exposure is attenuated to 74% of the true value. Grouping by factory showed very poor exposure contrast, as the contrast in exposure level among factories was as low as 0.15. This indicates that parameters affecting exposure are independent of the specific factories in the furniture industry
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Oct. 2001, Vol.45, No.7, p.603-608. 15 ref

CIS 03-921
Health and Safety Executive
Safe use of vertical spindle moulding machines
This information sheet provides practical guidance on safe working practices when using vertical spindle moulding machines. Contents: accident history and statistics; guarding requirements and safe working practices; backcutting or climbcutting; tooling, cutters, special precautions during straight work, full length straight cuts, straight work with stopped cut, shaped or curved work and work on large, small or complex workpieces, design of jugs and work holders. Replaces CIS 93-326.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 4p. Illus. 8 ref.
http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/wis18.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-835
Health and Safety Executive
COSHH and the woodworking industries
This information sheet provides advice to employers on the application of the British Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999 (COSHH, see CIS 00-620) to the woodworking industry. Contents: definition of a substance hazardous to health; types of potentially harmful substances found in the woodworking industry and their routes of entry into the body; need for a risk assessment and measures to be taken following identification of risks; air sampling; dust extraction for woodworking and portable machines; selection of respirators; need for health surveillance; employee training. Replaces CIS 01-1185.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2001. 4p. 19 ref.
http://www.geoffswoodwork.co.uk/hsecoshh1999.pdf [in English]

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