Dangers Of Wood Dust In The Warehouse

Fire Hazards

Obviously, wood is a flammable object. This is typically the first on the mind as well. What is not known, is that it can sometimes be combustible as well. Generally, the larger the volume of the dust cloud, the more widespread its effects will be. Things such as unauthorized smoking and electrical mishaps can potentially ignite flames. This is the most known hazard. The proper precautions must be taken to prevent build-up within the facility.

Health Risks

The negative health effects associated with wood dust do not only come from the wood dust itself. Organisms such as mold/fungi, and chemicals used in the processing of some woods, etc can cause adverse effects. Things such as asthma and irritation to eyes/nose/throat may occur. It is unsafe for prolonged exposure to these dust particles. Pallet wood can be exposed to various chemicals and pests. Some people may have serious medical ramifications from the things the lumber has come in contact with in addition or opposed to the wood itself.

Prevention Methods

Warehouse management is essential to the safety in the work area. Making it a standard to regularly eliminate the dust in the warehouse. Proper ventilation, dust collection systems and regular vacuuming are great at minimizing the dust that settles. Create a schedule for cleaning that will allow for none or an acceptable amount of dust. The OSHA limit of 5 mg/m3 means that no more than 5 milligrams of breathable dust may be present in a cubic meter of air. This may be hard to measure, unless you are a trained professional, so keeping it as low as possible should be the goal.

If you are repairing or dismantling any wood pallets in your warehouse, this may be causing a particularly dusty area. To eliminate this risk if it is not part of your necessary production process, partnering with a responsible pallet provider is essential. Here at Rose Pallet, we offer a pallet removal and pallet recycling program which could help curb these risks.