Wood Dust COSHH assessment
Wood dust from sawing, sanding and machining can cause asthma and, for hardwoods, nasal cancer. MDF and composite boards also release formaldehyde. It is a common hazard for joiners and carpenters.
The hazards
- Fine dust from cutting, sanding and machining timber and boards
- Hardwood dust is a recognised cause of nasal cancer
- Can trigger and cause occupational asthma
- MDF and composites release formaldehyde
Who is at risk
Exposure routes
- Inhalation of fine dust
- Skin and eye contact
Health effects
- Occupational asthma
- Nasal cancer (hardwood dust)
- Skin and eye irritation and dermatitis
Control measures (hierarchy of control)
Controls should be applied in order, eliminate or substitute first, then engineering controls, then PPE as the last line.
- On-tool extraction (LEV) fitted to saws, sanders and routers
- Fixed LEV at machines in the workshop
- Vacuum with an M-class vacuum, never dry-sweep or use compressed air
- Maintain and test LEV regularly (thorough examination and test)
- RPE for short tasks where LEV is not practicable
PPE & RPE
- FFP3 mask (face-fit tested)
- Eye protection
- Ear defenders (machining noise)
First aid
- Move to fresh air if breathing is affected
- Rinse eyes with clean water if dust gets in them
- Health surveillance for asthma is required for regular exposure
Workplace exposure limit (WEL)
Relevant legislation & guidance
Wood Dust COSHH FAQs
Yes, hardwood dust is a recognised cause of nasal cancer and any wood dust can cause occupational asthma. It is one of the most common causes of work-related lung disease for joiners and carpenters.
3 mg/m³ over 8 hours for hardwood and 5 mg/m³ for softwood. Control with on-tool or fixed extraction and an M-class vacuum, and never dry-sweep.
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