Woodworking industry - 676 entries found

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2001

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]

CIS 03-93 The cork industry - Occupational safety and health manual
Indústria da cortiça - Manual de prevenção [in Portuguese]
This manual presents an analysis of the hazards arising from the preparation and treatment of cork, as well as the appropriate prevention measures. The various hazards (mechanical, microbiological, electrical, chemical and thermal, respirable dust, noise) are identified and evaluated in terms of their effects on exposed workers. Preventive measures (including signalling, personal protective equipment, collective protection, training and information) are defined, together with the role of the safety and health service that each enterprise operating in this sector is required have. The various preparation and treatment operations of cork are described. For each operation, class of hazard, the specific hazard, the effects and prevention measures are listed in tables that can form the basis of a prevention programme. A glossary is included.
Instituto de Desenvolvimento e Inspecção das Condições de Trabalho (IDICT), Lisboa, Portugal, Sep. 2001. 157p. Illus. 20 ref. Price: EUR 7.48.

CIS 02-1345 Priha E., Ahonen I., Oksa P.
Control of chemical risks during the treatment of soil contaminated with chlorophenol, creosote and copper-chrome-arsenic-wood preservatives
Exposure to chemicals was studied during the remediation of four polluted sites: a sawmill contaminated with chlorophenols, polychlorinated dioxins and furans (PCDD/F), a wood impregnating plant contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), an old gas works area contaminated with PAH, and a wood impregnation plant contaminated with copper-chromium-arsenic (CCA) preservative. Air monitoring showed that the exposure levels were generally well below the current occupational exposure limits. However, the recommended daily intake value for PCDD/F was exceeded. Chlorophenol exposure was generally low. Exposure to volatile PAH was 0.038-0.884mg/m³ and that to particulate PAH was 0.004-0.183mg/m³. The biomonitoring results (urinary 1-pyrenol) suggested that some exposure occurs, probably through the contamination of hands or skin absorption. Exposure limits were not exceeded at the site contaminated with CCA. More attention should be given to skin protection.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Apr. 2001, Vol.39, No.4, p.402-409. 30 ref.

CIS 02-1250 Saary M.J., House R.A., Holness D.L.
Dermatitis in a particleboard manufacturing facility
To assess the prevalence and nature of skin complaints in the refining and drying department of a particleboard manufacturing facility, workers were assessed by a physician using a standardized questionnaire concerning symptoms, past and family history, workplace exposures, and use of protective equipment. Cutaneous examination and patch testing were also performed. Questionnaire results showed that workers complained of rash, nasal and eye irritation, as well as cough and bothersome odours. Cutaneous examination identified a heterogeneity of skin problems, with dermatitis being mainly irritant rather than allergic. Quaternium-15 was the only allergen to which more than one individual reacted. Aside from the odours, exposure to wood dust could account for the other reported symptoms. There were few allergic reactions on patch testing, and most skin reactions were irritant. Recommendations included improved dust control, through ventilation and personal hygiene measures, as well as protective clothing.
Contact Dermatitis, June 2001, Vol.44, No.6, p.325-330. 11 ref.

CIS 02-1368 Richez J.P.
Three woodworking shops adopt variable-flow exhaust ventilation
Trois menuiseries industrielles adoptent l'aspiration à débit variable [in French]
Wood dust being a known carcinogen, it is necessary to equip woodworking shops with dust collection systems. This article presents the experience of thee small woodworking shops having opted for a variable-flow exhaust ventilation system. This system constantly adjusts the flow of air required for collecting dust as a function of the number of machines being used. As a result, it is not only more efficient, but also allows energy savings. The schematic design of a variable-flow exhaust ventilation system is presented. The article also refers to relevant French and European regulations, in particular to Council Directive 1999/38/EC on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens at work (see CIS 00-1516).
Travail et sécurité, June 2001, No.608, p.10-15. Illus.

CIS 02-935 Kuntz P., Otter B., Trivin J.Y.
Circular saw benches and dimension saws
Scies circulaires à table ou à format [in French]
Aimed at company owners, managers and supervisors, this technical safety data sheet analyses the risks of working at circular saw benches and dimension saws and proposes ways of preventing them. Contents: uses of the saws; terminology; description; purchasing conditions, acceptance, laying out and installation of machinery; operation of machinery; practical guidance on the workplace and machinery preparation, use and maintenance. Replaces CIS 87-1081.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 4th Quarter 2001, No.185, p.69-88. Illus. 17 ref.

CIS 02-879
Health and Safety Executive
LEV: General principles of a design system
This information sheet contains guidance aimed at designers and manufacturers of woodworking machines, as well as at designers, installers and users of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems in woodworking shops. Contents: nature of wood dust; LEV system design principles; design of fans and collection units; commissioning, inspection and maintenance of LEV systems.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 2p. Illus. 4 ref.

CIS 02-921 Suffocation from panels
Etouffé par des panneaux [in French]
Description of a fatal accident that occurred in a woodworking shop where following a loss of balance while working to handle a particle-board panel, a worker was crushed under six panels weighing 520kg. He died of suffocation within seconds. This data sheet highlights an often underestimated risk from the weight of the panels, and describes good practices with respect to their storage and handling.
Prévention BTP, Dec. 2001, No.36, p.27-28. Illus.

CIS 02-229 Douwes J., McLean D., Slater T., Pearce N.
Asthma and other respiratory symptoms in New Zealand pine processing sawmill workers
To study respiratory symptoms in pine sawmill workers, a respiratory health questionnaire was administered to 772 subjects and the association between symptoms and job-title-based exposure was studied. Asthma in exposed workers (18%) was more common than in the general population (12.1%, adjusted OR=1.6). Asthma was also more common in the low exposure group (15.6%) and high exposure groups (high exposure to "green dust", 20.4%, and high exposure to "dry dust", 18.8%), than in the non-exposed workers (9.2%). Adjusted odds ratios were 1.9, 2.7 and 2.1, respectively. Adjusted odds ratios for symptoms of cough were 2.7 for the low, 5.2 for the high "green dust" and 3.3 for the high "dry dust" exposure groups. Moreover, eye and nose irritations were significantly more prevalent in the exposure groups.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, June 2001, Vol.39, No.6, p.608-615. 30 ref.

CIS 02-409
Health and Safety Executive
Noise reduction at band re-saws
The noise generated by band re-saws (typically over 85dB(A)) can be reduced by maintaining the machine and blade in good condition. Factors affecting the blade vibration level (the main source of noise) are listed along with advice on how the difference in noise levels when cutting and when idling can be used as a good indicator of the condition and adjustment of the machine and blade. Replaces CIS 91-515.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, June 2001. 2p. Illus. 2 ref.

CIS 01-621 Official Mexican Standard - Forestry and sawmill activities - Safety and health conditions [Mexico]
Norma Oficial Mexicana - Actividades de aprovechamiento forestal maderable y de aserraderos - Condiciones de seguridad e higiene [México] [in Spanish]
Contents of this regulatory standard (entry into effect: 7 Nov. 2001): definitions; obligations of the employer and the worker relating to safety and health in forestry, logging and sawmill operations; evaluation of potential hazards; safety and health conditions in forestry and logging; safety and health conditions in sawmills; audit units.
Diario Oficial de la Federación, 10 July 2001, Vol.DLXXIV, No.7, p.72-79. 6 ref.
http://www.stps.gob.mx/04_sub_prevision/03_dgsht/normatividad/normas/nom-008.htm [in Spanish]

CIS 01-805 Chambers C., Worsell N., Beswick J., Heritage L., Wu B.
Health and Safety Executive
Availability, quality and standards of training for woodworking operators and supervisors
The accident rate in the woodworking industry remains high. It is an industry in which employees have to regularly work with cutting tools or blades that are exposed. There is also a significant potential for ill health caused by poor manual handling and exposure to dust. The proper use of guards and safe working practices are essential in reducing the risk of serious accidents and ill health to a tolerable level. Training and good supervision are therefore fundamental to ensuring good health and safety. The objectives of the research documented in this report were to identify the training programmes available to both operators and supervisors of woodworking machinery in particular, to assess the suitability of this training in terms of quality and standards, to identify barriers to training that exist in the industry and propose measures which could be taken to improve the take-up of suitable training.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, 2001. iv, 156p. Illus. 25 ref. Price: GBP 20.00.

CIS 01-873 Struttmann T.W., Scheerer A.L.
Fatal injuries caused by logs rolling off trucks: Kentucky 1994-1998
Logging is one of the most hazardous occupations and fatality rates are consistently among the highest of all industries. Between 1994 and 1998, seven accidents were identified in which a worker was killed by a log rolling off a truck at a sawmill, accounting for 15% of the 45 deaths related to logging activities. These accidents caused by logs rolling off trucks are reviewed in order to identify similar characteristics and risk factors. Recommendations are made in the area of behavioural changes, administrative control and operations. Potential interventions include limiting load height on trucks, installing unloading cages at sawmills and prohibiting overloaded trucks on public roadways.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Feb. 2001, Vol.39, No.2, p.203-208. Illus. 20 ref.

2000

CIS 06-847 Fayomi B., Tossou F., Biaou O.
Systematic radiological examination of the lungs and facial sinus of carpenters in Cotonou, Benin
Examen radiologique systématique des poumons et des sinus de la face chez les menuisiers à Cotonou au Bénin [in French]
This study involved 32 male carpenters at a furniture manufacturing cooperative in Cotonou, Benin in 1999. Data were collected by means of interviews, clinical examinations and radiographies of the chest and sinus. Lung opacities were observed in two workers, while 25 of the 32 workers were found to have maxillary sinusitis. The study clearly highlights the insufficient nature of the preventive measures in place and the need for the medical supervision of workers.
Revue de médecine du travail, 2000, Vol.XXVII, No.5, p.317-319. 8 ref.

CIS 02-1927 Oberecht P.
Vertical axis spindle moulders - Selection of anti-kickback holding devices
Toupies à arbre vertical - Choix des outils "anti-rejet" [in French]
When working at vertical axis spindle moulders, kickbacks of workpieces can cause serious accidents. Machines therefore need to be equipped with guards offering protection against kickbacks. It is of prime importance that these devices be properly selected and used under the best possible conditions. Aimed at company managers and workshop foremen of workplaces where vertical axis spindle moulders are used, this safety information sheet summarizes the main requirements of milling machines and workpiece holding devices for limiting the risk of kickback.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2000. 4p. Illus. 6 ref. Can also be found on the site: http://www.inrs.fr/produits/

CIS 02-1813 Demers P.A., Teschke K., Davies H.W., Kennedy S.M., Leung V.
Exposure to dust, resin acids, and monoterpenes in softwood lumber mills
The objective of this study was to assess exposure to potential respiratory hazards in a large lumber mill processing spruce, pine and fir. Personal samples of inhalable particulate were collected to measure exposure to dust and resin acids (abietic acid and pimaric acid). Passive dosimeters were used to measure exposure to α-pinene, β-pinene, Δ³-carene and other unidentified wood volatiles believed to be monoterpenes. The mean concentration of inhalable particulates was 1.0mg/m³ whereas the mean abietic acid, pimaric acid and estimated wood dust levels were 7.2µg/m³, 0.6µg/m³ and 0.5mg/m³, respectively. The mean values of the monoterpene samples were 0.1mg/m³ for α-pinene, 0.3mg/m³ for β-pinene, 0.1mg/m³ for Δ³-carene and 0.5mg/m³ for the unidentified wood volatiles. Monoterpene exposures were much lower than those observed in other studies conducted in Sweden and Finland. The results highlight the importance of considering the content of airborne particulates in lumber mills as well as potential exposure to wood chemicals.
AIHA Journal, July-Aug. 2000, Vol.61, No.4, p.521-528. Illus. 40 ref.

CIS 02-1314 Muller J.P., Bémer D., Dessagne J.M.
Malfunctioning of dust control units in the woodworking industry - Study of detection devices based on two different principles
Dysfonctionnement des dépoussiéreurs de l'industrie du bois - Etude de deux principes d'appareils de détection [in French]
Re-circulation of purified air in woodworking workshops requires efficient and continuous monitoring. Systems for the detection of dust control unit malfunctions must be installed to prevent the accidental reintroduction of dust. The aim of this test bench study was to investigate two measurement principles specifically adapted to this type of monitoring. The method developed for the tests allowed simulation of two types of incidents and verification of the influence of certain parameters on the response of the detection devices. The study showed that all the tribo-electric effect devices tested are capable, with varying degrees of sensitivity, of detecting both types of incidents simulated on the test bench. As regards the photometers, orthogonal diffusion devices, which are very sensitive to variations in aerosol particle site, are unsuitable for this type of application. However, results obtained for photometers operating with low front diffusion angles, often with computerized corrections, indicate that they could be used to detect malfunctions.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 3rd Quarter 2000, No.180, p.21-34. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 02-179 Bohadana A.B., Massin N., Wild P., Toamain J.P., Engel S., Goutet P.
Respiratory symptoms, bronchial reactivity and occupational exposure to oak and beech dust
Symptômes respiratoires, réactivité bronchique et exposition professionnelle aux poussières de chêne et de hêtre [in French]
The objective of the study was to investigate the relationship between levels of cumulative exposure to wood dust on one hand, and respiratory symptoms and onset of bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) among oak and beech wood workers on the other. 114 men working in furniture manufacture exposed to wood dust were selected to participate in the study, together with 14 non-exposed controls and 200 "historical" controls, for whom data from earlier studies were available. Dust concentrations were measured in working air by personal sampling. Lung functions and bronchial hyperreactivity were tested, and medical history data were collected by means of a questionnaire. Results show what exposure levels are generally high, largely exceeding the average exposure limits of 1mg/m³ applied in France and proposed by the ACGIH. Among subjects exposed to oak and beech dust, the prevalence of laryngeal irritation and metacholine BHR increase rapidly with cumulative exposure.
Documents pour le médecin du travail, 3rd Quarter 2000, No.83, p.241-248. 33 ref.

CIS 02-325 Chung K.Y.K., Cuthbert R.J., Revell G.S., Wassel S.G., Summers N.
A study on dust emission, particle size distribution and formaldehyde concentration during machining of medium density fibreboard
The aim of this study was to characterise the quantity, particle size distribution and morphology of dust created during the machining of medium density fibreboard (MDF). Four types of MDF boards were evaluated, including a "zero-formaldehyde" board that contains isocyanate-based resin. Natural softwood (pine) and hardwood (oak) were included for comparison purposes. Results show that dusts generated by machining MDF are comparable in terms of particle size distribution and morphology with that generated by machining hardwood or softwood. The quantity of dust generated during sanding is higher for MDF compared with either hardwood or softwood. However, for sawing there is no significant difference between MDF and natural woods. Free formaldehyde in the air was less than 0.17mg/m³ during machining of the class B (higher formaldehyde potential) MDF board. There was no measurable isocyanate in the dust generated from the boards.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Sep. 2000, Vol.44, No.6, p.455-466. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 02-424 Check list - Milling machines
Liste de contrôle - Outils de fraisage [in French]
Checkliste - Kelhwerkzeuge [in German]
Lista di controllo - Frese [in Italian]
From 1 January 1999, all new milling machines in Switzerland have to comply with the requirements of the standard "Machine-tools for the woodworking industry" (SN EN 847-1). Aimed at company owners and managers, the objective of this checklist is to allow them to ensure that milling tools fulfil technical and safety specifications and that they are properly used.
Suva, Gesundheitsschutz, Postfach, 6002 Luzern, Switzerland, no date. 7p. Illus.

CIS 01-1760 Bohadana A.B., Massin N., Wild P., Toamain J.P., Engel S., Goutet P.
Symptoms, airway responsiveness, and exposure to dust in beech and oak wood workers
To investigate the relationship between exposure to wood dust and respiratory symptoms and bronchial hyperresponsiveness, 114 male woodworkers from five furniture factories and 13 male unexposed controls were examined. Dust concentration was measured by personal sampling. Cumulative exposure to dust was calculated for each woodworker by multiplying the duration of the work by the intensity of exposure (years.mg/m³). Bronchial hyperresponsiveness was assessed by the methacholine challenge test. Subjects were labelled methacholine challenge positive if forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV₁) fell by ≥20%. The median cumulative exposure to dust was 110 years.mg/m³. Overall, no declines in FEV₁ and forced vital capacity (FVC) were found with increasing exposures. A dose-response relation was found between intensity of exposure on one hand, and sore throat and increased prevalence of positive methacholine challenge tests on the other hand.
Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Apr. 2000, Vol.57, No.4, p.268-273. 33 ref.

CIS 01-1487 Surakka J., Lindh T., Rosén G., Fischer T.
Workers' dermal exposure to uv-curable acrylates in the furniture and parquet industry
The use of ultraviolet radiation-curable coatings (UV-coatings) has increased rapidly in the parquet and furniture industry. Work with UV-coatings involves risk from skin exposure to chemically reactive, concentrated acrylates that are known skin contact irritants and sensitizers. Skin exposure to UV-coatings was measured employing a quantitative tape stripping method that was developed for this purpose. A pilot study was performed at three workplaces. In the main study, workers' skin exposure to uncured UV-coatings was measured at seven workplaces and on two separate workdays (rounds 1 and 2) within a six-month period to determine exposure variation. Skin exposure was measured at four standardized sites on the hand, 3-4 times per work shift. A questionnaire was carried out with the workers in both rounds to find out factors that can affect skin exposure to UV-coatings. Despite the limited sampling area and sampling sites, we could find residues of tripropylene glycol diacrylate at all sampling times, even at the beginning of the work shift. This may be due to transfer of UV-coatings through contaminated equipment, shoes and surfaces. The study indicates that there is a risk of harmful skin exposure to UV-coatings in the furniture and parquet industry.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Dec. 2000, Vol.44, No.8, p.635-644. Illus. 33 ref.

CIS 01-1458 Innos K., Rahu M., Rahu K., Lang I., Leon D.A.
Wood dust exposure and cancer incidence: A retrospective cohort study of furniture workers in Estonia
In a retrospective cohort study of furniture workers, cancer incidence in 3723 men and 3063 women between 1968 and 1995 was compared to the incidence in the general population of Estonia. Cancer risks were analysed by employment duration and occupation. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for all cancers did not differ significantly from one. Two men and one woman had sinonasal cancer (expected 1.07 and 0.53, respectively). Significantly increased risk of colon cancer was seen in the cohort (SIR 1.65). Subjects employed for 10 years and over had significant excess of colon cancer (SIR 2.29) and rectal cancer (SIR 2.10) in the analysis by employment duration using exposure with a latency of 20 years. The non-significant excess of pharyngeal cancer in men (SIR 1.82) and lung cancer in women (SIR 1.43) was restricted to short-term workers.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 2000, Vol.37, No.5, p.501-511. 36 ref.

CIS 01-1186
Health and Safety Executive
Assessment and control of wood dust: Use of the dust lamp
Wood dust is a substance hazardous to health, and employers have an obligation under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) to make an exposure assessment and to implement prevention and control measures. A dust lamp is a practical tool for conducting exposure assessments. It produces a high intensity parallel beam of light and shows up fine dust not visible under normal lighting conditions. This information sheet describes dust lamps and provides guidance on their method of use.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 2000. 2p. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 01-1232
Health and Safety Executive
Safe stacking of sawn timber and board materials
Nearly 20% of fatal injuries and 13% of major injuries in woodworking are caused by strikes by falling objects, in particular timber falling from stacks. This information sheet contains practical guidance on the safe stacking and storage of sawn timber and board materials. Contents include: what can be done to prevent stacking accidents; stack stability factors; safe working practices; protecting the public; storage area management and layout; personal protection.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 2000. 4p. Illus. 6 ref.

CIS 01-880 Douwes J., McLean D., van der Maarl E., Heederik D., Pearce N.
Worker exposures to airborne dust, endotoxin and β(1,3)-glucan in two New Zealand sawmills
Airborne dust, bacterial endotoxin and β(1,3)-glucan levels were measured in 37 samples from two New Zealand sawmills. Nearly one-third of the measured dust levels exceeded 1mg/m³ and only one sample exceeded the legal limit of 5mg/m³. Endotoxin levels were clearly elevated with 50% of all measured exposures above 50EU/m³ (range: 7-588EU/m³). β(1,3)-glucan levels were comparable with levels measured in other industries where workers are exposed to organic dust. Workers in the planing department had the highest mean exposures to dust, endotoxin and β(1,3)-glucan. Dust levels were only weakly correlated with endotoxin and β(1,3)-glucan levels. Endotoxin exposures in sawmill workers are at levels sufficient to potentially contribute to the development of respiratory symptoms. Moreover, measurement of dust exposure is a poor proxy for β(1,3)-glucan and endotoxin exposure in sawmill workers.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, Oct. 2000, Vol.38, No.4, p.426-430. 26 ref.

CIS 01-490 Sanz-Gallén P., Ribas Deix O., Nogué Xarau S.
Main toxicological hazards in the ceramic, glass, wood and tanning and fur industries
Principales riesgos toxicológicos de las industrias: cerámica, del vidrio, madera, y curtido y peletería [in Spanish]
The main hazards facing various industries are reviewed. In the brick and tile industry, components of clays and varnishes and kiln emissions give rise in particular to lung diseases, dermatitis and lead or arsenic poisoning. Health hazards in the glass industry include silicosis, asbestosis, burns and acute lung oedema, lung or nasal cavity cancer, contact dermatitis and poisoning (from lead, other metals and arsenic). In woodworking, wood dust, wood preservatives, varnishes and resins can give rise to contact dermatitis, respiratory diseases whether allergic or not, conjunctivitis and rhinitis, and lung, nasal cavity or scrotum cancers. In the tanning and fur industries, the hazards result primarily from exposure to mineral, vegetal or synthetic tannins which can give rise to contact dermatitis, perforation of the nasal septum, respiratory diseases or neoplasms of the nasal cavities, the lungs and the bladder.
Prevención, July-Sep. 2000, No.153, p.40-47. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 00-1417
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 93-273.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, July 2000. 4p. Illus. 13 ref.

CIS 00-1349 Kirkeskov Jensen L.K., Mikkelsen S., Pryds Loft I., Eenberg W.
Work-related knee disorders in floor layers and carpenters
To examine the relationship among knee-straining work, self-reported knee-complaints and physical signs of knee disorders, 133 floor layers, 506 carpenters and 327 compositors aged 26 to 72 years without previous acute knee traumas were surveyed in a cross-sectional study by means of a questionnaire. A random sample of the questionnaire responders, 67 floor layers, 127 carpenters and 101 compositors had independent double examinations for physical signs of knee disorders. Videotapes showed that knee-straining work constituted 56% of working time for floor layers, 26% for carpenters, and none for compositors. The prevalences of self-reported knee-complaints were positively associated with the amount of knee-straining work and were significantly different for the three trades. The clinical study showed a positive association for knee-straining work, hyperkeratosis and bursitis.
Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Aug. 2000, Vol.42, No.8, p.835-842. 37 ref.

CIS 00-544
Health and Safety Executive
Safe use of single-end tenoning machines
This information sheet provides practical guidance to help employers satisfy the requirements of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998. Accident prevention can be achieved by hardware measures (braking device, improvement of the guarding of the tools, enclosure of machine to restrict third party access, tooling) and safe working practices (adequate training and supervision of workers, clamping of the workpiece, securing the fences and guides, provision of workpiece supports), as well as other measures such as good lighting, housekeeping, frequent machine checks and regular maintenance.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2000. 4p. Illus. 8 ref.

CIS 00-370
Health and Safety Executive
Manual handling solutions in woodworking
In the woodworking industry, manual handling causes approximately 30% of the work-related injuries each year. This guidance note gives practical solutions to manual handling problems in this sector. Topics covered include: handling timber treatment kegs; workbench height; handling of tooling; handling round timber, panels, planks; movement of assembled furniture and joinery; use of pneumatic nailing guns; inspection of pallets; feeding timber into roof-truss saws.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Mar. 2000. 12p. Illus. 9 ref.

1999

CIS 07-1474 A guide for protecting workers from woodworking hazards
Machines used in woodworking are dangerous, particularly when used improperly or without proper safeguards. Workers operating woodworking equipment often suffer from the following injuries: laceration, severed fingers and blindness. Wood dust and the chemicals used in finishing are health hazards, and workers in this industry can suffer from skin and respiratory diseases. The purpose of this guide is to help employers provide a safe and healthy workplace. Contents: principal safety hazards of woodworking and methods of control; specific woodworking equipment hazards and controls; other safety hazards of woodworking; health hazards of woodworking and methods of control (wood dust, noise, vibration, chemicals used in finishing); personal protective equipment.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210, USA, 1999. 67p. Illus. 38 ref.
http://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3157.pdf [in English]

CIS 03-789 León M.C.
Respiratory risks of wood production processes
Riesgos respiratorios en los procesos productivos de la madera [in Spanish]
Respiratory risks due to various wood production processes are listed. Exposure to wood dust is associated with sinusitis, asthma, infectious respiratory diseases and irritation of the respiratory tract leading to rhinitis and chronic bronchitis. Exposure to wood impregnation or treatment products (ammonia, phenolic resins, organic solvents and fungicides) induces a series of disorders. The importance of wearing protective gloves and clothes as well as respirators is emphasized.
Protección y seguridad, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.45, No.268, p.24-29. Illus. 5 ref.

CIS 03-363 Practical ventilation guide - 12. Woodworking
Guide pratique de ventilation 12 - Deuxième transformation du bois [in French]
This document is designed to provide practical answers to all persons involved in the design, reception, operation and control of ventilation equipment used in the woodworking industry. It covers only the essential questions relating to ventilation systems and the different particles generated in wood processing workshops such as shavings, sawdust and dusts produced by certain operations. Other hazards such as vapours emitted during varnishing, and the problems of pollutant rejection into the environment, are not addressed. Appendices include relevant French regulations and a glossary. Updates and replaces CIS 92-963.
Institut national de recherche et de sécurité, 30 rue Olivier-Noyer, 75680 Paris Cedex 14, France, 2nd ed., Aug. 1999. 36p. Illus. 32 ref.

CIS 01-1806 Blondet M., Boitel L., Dupery M., Durand C., Pommier J.L., Rat de Cocquard M., Raymond F., Taupin J.P.
Study of the daily level of exposure to noise for workers in four occupations: Plastics processing; woodworking in woodworking shops; selling hi-fi, video and audio equipment; municipal waste collection
Etude du niveau d'exposition sonore quotidienne des salariés dans quatre activités: travaux de plasturgie; travaux sur machines à bois en atelier; vente de matériels Hi Fi, vidéo, son; collecte des ordures ménagères (ripeur-éboueur) [in French]
The objective of this study was to measure, over a one-year period, the daily levels of exposure to noise and the peak acoustic pressures in four types of occupations: plastics processing, working on machines in woodworking shops, selling hi-fi, video and audio equipment and collecting municipal waste. After describing the methodology used, the results obtained for each occupation are presented. Workers in plastics processing and woodworking are exposed to levels higher than regulatory thresholds. Technical prevention measures and audiometric surveillance need to be implemented. The exposure of municipal waste collectors is very close to danger levels, requiring the introduction of prevention policies and compensation for this occupation. As far as hi-fi, video and audio salespersons are concerned, 55% are subjected to levels in excess of peak values (135dB) and are consequently exposed to harmful levels; however, the interpretation of these results is complex, and further work is required.
Centre Interservices de Santé et de Médecine du travail en Entreprise (CISME), 10 rue de la Rosière, 75015 Paris, France, 1999. 143p. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 01-1642 Internal audit - Furniture industry
Autodiagnostic - Fabrication de meubles (fabrication industrielle) [in French]
Through an internal auditing of hazards, one can develop a safety and health plan adapted to the company. A check-list for conducting such an audit in the furniture manufacturing industry is proposed, consisting of the following parts: periodical checks of installations and equipment; reception of raw materials; storage and handling; analysis of workplaces (prevention of hazards due to various machines and products used for cutting, machining, finishing, assembly, packing); storage of finished goods; ventilation systems; temporary workers; action plan.
CRAM des Pays de la Loire, 7 rue de Président E. Hériot, BP 93405, 44034 Nantes, France, May 1999. 48p. Illus. 16 ref

CIS 01-1741 Detering B., Heimann M., Möcklinghoff K., Müller L., Poppe M., Wüstefeld B., Wolf J.
Can modern dust reduction technologies ensure that wood dust emissions at workplaces in Germany comply with the current limit value in all cases?
Ist der deutsche Luftgrenzwert für Holzstaub mit einer fortschrittlichen Staubminderungstechnik in der Praxis überall einzuhalten? [in German]
In Germany, the limit value for wood dust in air at the workplace has been set at 2mg/m³. However, a limit of 5mg/m³ is tolerated for certain types of activity appearing on what is known as the "negative list". In the context of the current revision of this list, a series of measurements of dust concentrations was carried out in various selected woodworking occupations. They showed that the limit value of 2mg/m³ could not be complied with in certain cases, in particular during work on double circular chainsaws without clutches, table milling machines, copy milling machines, wood lathes, wheel stands, rod polishing machines, particleboard shredders, manual circular saws, as well as at manual sanding and assembly workplaces.
Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Nov.-Dec. 1999, Vol.59, No.11-12, p.419-427. Illus. 11 ref.

CIS 01-1137 Subra I., Hubert G., Aubert S., Héry M., Elcabache J.M.
Occupational exposure to metals in the machining of copper-, chromium- and arsenic-treated wood
Exposition professionnelle aux métaux lors de l'usinage des bois traités au cuivre, chrome, arsenic [in French]
Exposure was measured in two workshops where impregnated wood is machined. The chromium in the treatment solution is the most toxic form (chromium VI), but due to its reducing properties the cellulose in the wood tends to transform it during impregnation into what are probably trivalent components. As a result, worker exposure to chromium VI is minimal (at the limit of analytical detection). Generally, exposure to total chromium and copper is well below the limit values, both French and American. Only exposure to arsenic reaches significant levels in the two workshops. Although well below the current French limit value of 200µg/m³, it is above the limit value recently proposed in France (50µg/m³) and that adopted by ACGIH (10µg/m³). An efficient implementation of the prevention measures related to woodworking is sufficient for a good prevention of copper, chromium and arsenic related hazards.
Cahiers de notes documentaires - Hygiène et sécurité du travail, 2nd Quarter 1999, No.175, p.61-68. Illus. 12 ref.

CIS 01-1165 Teschke K., Demers P.A., Davies H.W., Kennedy S.M., Marion S.A., Leung V.
Determinants of exposure to inhalable particulate, wood dust, resin acids, and monoterpenes in a lumber mill environment
Respirable particulate, resin acid and monoterpene exposures were measured, and wood dust exposures estimated in a lumber mill. Potential determinants of exposure were documented, including weather conditions, tree species, wood conditions, jobs, tasks, equipment used, and certain control measures. Geometric mean concentrations were 0.98mg/m³ for respirable particulate, 0.49mg/m³ for wood dust, 8.04µg/m³ for resin acids, and 1.11mg/m³ for total monoterpenes. Spruce and pine produced higher exposures than alpine fir or mixed tree species. Sawing wood in the primary breakdown areas of the mill was the main contributor to monoterpene exposures. Cleaning up sawdust, planing kiln-dried lumber and driving mobile equipment in the yard substantially increased exposures to both respirable particulate and estimated wood dust. Jobs at the front end of the sawmill where primary breakdown of the logs takes place had lower exposures.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, May 1999, Vol.43, No.4, p.247-255. 11 ref.

CIS 01-1121 Garrod A.N.I., Martinez M., Pearson J., Proud A., Rimmer D.A.
Exposure to preservatives used in the industrial pre-treatment of timber
To survey potential dermal and inhalation exposures of operators to industrial timber preservatives, 54 sites employing 57 timber pre-treatment process operators were surveyed. Preservative deposition patterns were similar for all treatments, with about 90% on the legs, and most of the remainder on the arms and chest. Water-based products in vacuum-pressure processes showed potential dermal exposure in the range 547-132,000mg per cycle with a median value 3960mg per cycle (median cycle time 3h). Exposure by inhalation for vacuum-pressure processes expressed as preservative, showed a range of 0.06-7.96mg/m³, with a time-weighted average exposure over one or two treatment cycles of 1.07mg/m³. Pilot study biological monitoring data for urinary chromium, arsenic and permethrin metabolites are quoted with reference to creatinine.
Annals of Occupational Hygiene, Nov. 1999, Vol.43, No.8, p.543-555. 18 ref.

CIS 01-250
Health and Safety Executive
Circular saw benches - Safe working practices
In a study of 1,000 accidents with woodworking machines in the United Kingdom, 35% occurred at circular saw benches, with most resulting in the amputation of fingers. This information sheet provides practical guidance on safe working practices at circular saw benches, and outlines the responsibilities of employers with respect to risk assessment and preventive actions under the current regulations applicable in the United Kingdom. Contents include: legal requirements; workpiece support; use of push-sticks; use of power feed; guarding and safe working practices during various cutting operations. (Replaces CIS 93-325):
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 1999. 4p. Illus. 9 ref.

CIS 01-249
Health and Safety Executive
Accidents at woodworking machines
This information sheet summarizes the results of the analysis of nearly 1,000 accidents involving woodworking machines in the United Kingdom over an 18-month period. Among these accidents, 73% occurred in the timber and furniture industries, and 50% took place in small enterprises. Circular saws, planing machines and vertical spindle moulding machines were involved in 69% of cases. The number of accidents are expressed as a function of the size of the company, by machine type and by the age of injured workers. The importance of training is emphasized.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Nov. 1999. 2p. 9 ref.

CIS 01-172
Health and Safety Executive
Medium density fibreboard (MDF): Hazard assessment document
Medium density fibreboard is a wood composite material used in the furniture industry. When fibreboard is machined, an atmosphere containing wood dust, formaldehyde and resin binder dust is released. Exposure effects include nasal irritation, deficits in pulmonary function, nasal mucosal swelling, reduction in olfactory perception, histopathological changes in the nasal epithelium and contact dermatitis. However, there is no evidence that these exposures produce health effects different from those seen in workers exposed to dust from hardwood or particleboard.
HSE Books, P.O. Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2WA, United Kingdom, Dec. 1999. vi, 41p. 36 ref. Price: GBP 7.50.

CIS 00-1034 Mandryk J., Alwis K.U., Hocking A.D.
Work-related symptoms and dose-response relationships for personal exposures and pulmonary function among woodworkers
Four sawmills, a wood chipping mill and five joineries were studied for the effects of personal exposure to wood dust, endotoxins, (1⇒3)-β-D-glucans, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi on lung function among woodworkers. Personal inhalable and respirable dust sampling was carried out. Lung function tests of workers were conducted before and after a workshift. Mean percentage cross-shift decrease in lung function was markedly high for woodworkers compared with the controls. Dose-response relationships among personal exposures and percentage cross-shift decrease in lung function and percentage-predicted lung function were more pronounced among joinery workers than among sawmill and chip mill workers. Woodworkers had markedly high prevalence of regular cough, phlegm and chronic bronchitis compared with controls. Significant associations were found between percentage cross-shift decrease in FVC and regular phlegm and blocked nose among sawmill and chip mill workers. Both joinery workers and sawmill and chip mill workers showed significant relationships between percentage-predicted lung function and respiratory symptoms.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine, May 1999, Vol.35, No.5, p.481-490. 52 ref.

CIS 00-784 Kumar A., Freeman S.
Leukoderma following occupational allergic contact dermatitis
Two cases of occupational allergic contact dermatitis followed by leukoderma are described. The first case was that of a 49-year-old wood machinist who developed leukoderma in areas of contact dermatitis involving his lips, neck, hands and forearms and was found to be allergic to colophony and pine sawdust on patch testing. The second case involved a 44-year-old man who worked as an epoxy applicator in a ceramics factory. He developed depigmentation in areas of contact dermatitis involving his face, hands, forearms, back, thighs and legs and was found on patch testing to be allergic to epoxy resin. The appearance of contact leukoderma may be indistinguishable from idiopathic vitiligo. However, the prognosis for repigmentation may be better in contact leukoderma than in idiopathic vitiligo.
Contact Dermatitis, Aug. 1999, Vol.41, No.1, p.94-98. Illus. 14 ref.

CIS 00-841 Blondet M., Boitel L., Dupéry M., Durand C., Pommier J.L., Rat de Coquard M., Raymond F., Taupin J.P.
Study of the daily level of exposure of workers to noise in four occupations
Etude du niveau d'exposition sonore quotidienne des salariés dans quatre activités [in French]
The objective of the study was to measure daily sound exposure levels and peak sound pressures over randomly selected days during a full year in four different occupational environments, and to compare the results. Measurements were made with class II sound dosimeters having a level of precision of ±1dB. Two groups of six workplaces in each occupation were measured over a full working day. Results were subjected to statistical analysis. The occupations included two that are subject to the requirements of Form No. 42 of occupational diseases in France (plastics processing, woodworking) and two that are not (sales of hi-fi and video equipment, municipal waste collection). Findings show that workers in plastics processing and woodworking are often exposed to sound levels higher than those of the auditory damage threshold. The exposure of waste collectors is close to dangerous levels, while in the case of hi-fi and video equipment salespersons, the results are mixed and will require further investigation.
Centre Interservices de Santé et de Médecine du travail en Entreprise, 10 rue de la Rosière, 75015 Paris, France, 1999. 143p. Illus. 21 ref.

CIS 00-759 Check prevention - Sawmills
Check prévention - La scierie [in French]
Check preventie - De houtzagerij [in Dutch]
This booklet is aimed at owners and managers of sawmills to help them conduct the occupational risk assessment required by Belgian legislation within their company, and to enable them to keep track of areas that need improvement. A first section to be filled in consists of the names of workers and their occupations. This is followed by check lists concerning machinery and equipment, transport hazards, electrical safety, hazardous materials, fire and explosion hazards, physical hazards, ergonomics, workers' health, emergency organization and first aid, workplaces and buildings, and company policies and organization.
PREVENT, rue Gachard 88, Bte 4, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium, 1999. 24p.

CIS 00-529 Guillemin C., Barbara J.J.
Noise control in the woodworking industry
L'insonorisation dans l'industrie du bois [in French]
Practical safety data sheet. Topics: acoustic enclosure; acoustic helmets; data sheet; design of equipment; earplugs; France; legislation; limitation of exposure; noise control; noise level measurement; noise reverberation; sound absorption; sound attenuation; sound shielding; woodworking industry; woodworking machines.
Travail et sécurité, Mar. 1999, No.582, p.53-56. Illus. 6 ref. Also available as an offprint from the INRS.

CIS 00-141 Schimberg R.W., Sillanpää J.E.
Glue spraying in the upholstered furniture industry: Presentation of a holistic approach to improve work conditions
Sprühkleben in der Polstermöbelherstellung: Vorstellung eines ganzheitlichen Ansatzes zur Entwicklung der Arbeitsbedingungen [in German]
In a questionnaire survey of 13 female glue sprayers in four different work stations in a upholstered furniture factory in Finland, over half complained of high noise and dust exposures. All the workers experienced pain in the shoulder and half of them had pain in the fingers, hand, wrist, neck and back. In addition, they complained about being restricted to a narrow space and about heavy work. Substituting the solvent-based glue with a water-based glue increased the dust concentrations. An optimized workplace design taking into account the results of the study is described.
Gefahrstoffe Reinhaltung der Luft, Oct. 1999, Vol.59, No.10, p.381-385. Illus. 19 ref.

CIS 00-188 Mäkinen M., Kalliokoski P., Kangas J.
Assessment of total exposure to phenol-formaldehyde resin glue in plywood manufacturing
Respiratory and dermal exposure to phenol-formaldehyde resin-glue components used in plywood manufacturing were assessed by monitoring formaldehyde and phenol in the workplace air. Formaldehyde was measured both in the breathing zones of the workers and at stationary sampling sites. Phenol was used as a marker agent for dermal exposure. Formaldehyde was noted to be the major compound causing respiratory exposure. When exposure assessment was done on the basis of air samples collected both at stationary sampling sites and in the breathing zonesof the workers, the agreement between the results obtained was good. The dermal sampling revealed that the workers were exposed to phenol, but the risk for toxic effects was slight due to the low concentrations of urinary phenol. It is concluded that is possible to use a stationary sampling method for the assessment of respiratory exposure in a plywood factory. The importance of taking dermal exposure into account is also outlined.
International Archives of Occupational and Environmental Health, Aug. 1999, Vol.72, No.5, p.309-314. Illus. 15 ref.

CIS 99-1811 Touching wood (Secondary processing industries)
Tocando madera (Industrias de segunda transformación) [in Spanish]
Risks in: carpentry; containers and packaging; furniture; doors, etc., workshops. Handling band and disc saws and spindle shapers. Use of chemical products in varnishing, lacquering operations, etc. English version is available. Topics: circular saws; furniture industry; paints and varnishes; risk factors; safety engineering; safety films; spindle moulders; training material; videotape; woodworking industry; woodworking machines.
Instituto Nacional de Seguridad e Higiene en el Trabajo, Ediciones y Publicaciones, c/Torrelaguna 73, 28027 Madrid, Spain, no date. Videotape (VHS-PAL) (length: 18min).

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