Woodworking is a potentially dangerous occupation or pastime. Whether you are a novice woodworker or a seasoned professional, being safe when working with timber is very important, not only for yourself but also for those around you. By working together, watching out for each other, and using the right safety equipment for the job, everyone in a woodworking shop can be safe and enjoy their job.
There are plenty of dangers and hazards present in a woodworking shop, such as sharp and spinning blades, heavy objects, and power tools. Being in a woodworking environment also exposes you to environmental hazards such as glues, paints, and sawdust particles. Moreover, there is also always the risk of electrical shock or getting cut by hand tools.
The following are some things to look out for when working with timber.
1. Wear Safety Glasses or Safety Goggles
Eye protection while working is highly important. Sawdust can be very irritating, and if you get something in your eyes it can be very painful. Eye protection such as safety glasses and safety goggles are vital, and a very inexpensive way of keeping you safe. If you normally wear glasses, you can also get prescription safety glasses or goggles.
2. Wear Safety Gloves
Safety gloves are necessary for protecting your hands, not only from cuts and splinters and other mechanical injuries but also from skin irritation. There are some types of timber that can cause a lot of irritation due to the natural oils of the tree. Wearing gloves will help avoid any possible allergic reactions.
3. Wear Appropriate Clothing
Whenever working with timber, keep in mind that it is best to avoid loose-fitting garments, as you don’t want any of your clothing to become entangled in a saw blade or cutting head. It is also important to ensure the clothing you are wearing will provide a layer of protection against flying wood chips.
4. Wear Respiratory Protection When Needed
Wearing respiratory protection is very important in reducing your exposure to sawdust and other particles, and also fumes and odours from working with certain glues and finishes. Some of these chemicals can be particularly harmful over a long period of time, and damage to your lungs cannot be undone.
5. Wear Hearing Protection
Many power tools are very loud, and prolonged exposure to loud noise from equipment can cause hearing loss. A good pair of earmuffs can ensure you do not damage your hearing.
6. Avoid Using Dull Tools
This may seem obvious, but you should never use a dull tool to cut wood. Apart from being counterproductive, and making it harder to carry out the desired task, dull equipment is more likely to kick back or bind and won’t produce a clean cut. Try to keep blades sharp and clean to achieve safer and better results.
7. Keep Distractions Away
Whenever you’re working with dangerous equipment in a woodshop, your entire focus must be on the task at hand. Avoid any distractions when actively working with tools. If you need to attend to something else when operating a power tool, always complete the ongoing task before dealing with a diversion.
Whether it’s a private workshop or a commercial worksite, taking precautions to ensure your safety and that of everyone around you is vital. Even for seasoned woodworkers, it’s easy to slip and cut an ungloved hand, or trip over some clutter and come off second best in a tussle with a rusty nail.
Southland Supply Group is here to help you choose the right safety equipment you need to protect contractors and keep safety standards high across the board. You can visit our website at https://www.southland.com.au/ and view our wide selection of products or call us at 1800 77 22 91.