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Let’s be honest, dust on-site is part of the job. Whether you’re cutting, sawing, sanding, or drilling, you’re going to create dust. But while the obvious dust is simple to collect, it’s the often invisible, airborne dust that poses the real health risk and must be controlled at the source.

What’s the damage?

Our bodies are pretty good at filtering out the big stuff, but those microscopic dust particles can get right past your natural defences and get deep into your lungs. Over time, this causes serious damage and scarring of lung tissue.  The damage to the lungs means it gets harder to breathe, which can lead to asthma or even lung cancer. It’s not just the wood itself either—the glues, resins, and chemical treatments in modern timber make it even worse.

Additionally, wood dust can irritate your eyes and cause unpleasant skin rashes, such as dermatitis.

Keeping the dust down

We’ve been around the block enough to know you can’t stop exposure to dust completely, but you can definitely manage it. Here is how to pass the ‘tradie test’ and keep your lungs protected:

• Order smart: Buy pre-cut or processed timber where you can to skip the on-site cutting.
• Extract it: Use on-tool dust extraction or a vacuum system right at the source when cutting or sanding.
• Ditch the broom: Never dry-sweep. It just kicks the dust back into the air. Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum or dampen the area down with water first.
• Take turns: Limit the time any one person spends doing the dustiest jobs.
• Gear up: Ensure everyone is wearing the correct mask (RPE) and safety gear for the task.
• Wash off: Wash your hands and face before eating, drinking, or smoking. Leave the dusty overalls at work so you don’t take the hazard home to the family.

Get your team up to speed

Your crew needs to know what they’re up against. The best way to do this is to sort it during your regular toolbox talks. Take five minutes this week to cover:

• The health risks of breathing in wood dust.
• Safe ways to work when things get dusty.
• How to actually use and look after your dust extraction gear.
• How to properly fit, wear, and look after your RPE (Respiratory Protective Equipment).

We’re all in this together. Keep it simple, keep it safe, and look out for your mates. If you’re ever unsure about how to tackle a hazard, just call the team on 0800 555 444 or fire through an email to info@hazardco.com.