Joinery workshops

Inhalation of softwood dust Inhalation of hardwood dust Noise Vibration 

British Standards BS6854 1987 Code of Practice for safeguarding wood-working machines 

BS EN 847-1 Tools for woodworking safety requirements - milling tools and circular saw blades 

Machine layout should be planned to provide safe access and clear working area for machinists. COSHH assessments must be available for all hazardous materials used, including wood dusts. Noise assessments should be available for all machines and processes where action levels are exceeded. 

Exhaust ventilation systems and PPE must be supplied where appropriate. This will be related to the assessments, and used as required by them. First-aid kits and a qualified first-aider must be available whenever work is done using power machinery. Working alone on this equipment must not be permitted. 

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Only trained and experienced operatives who are physically fit should be selected and appointed to operate woodworking machines. Training of operatives should include information from COSHH and noise assessments, training on safe use and the precautions to be followed on each type of machine. Machine training should include demonstration and work under supervision. Management will also be trained in these aspects, plus safety management in joinery workshops and the requirements of the COSHH and Noise Regulations. 

There are requirements within the COSHH Regulations on the examination and testing of engineering controls such as dust and fume extraction systems, and records of the tests must be kept for at least 5 years. Usually, this will only apply to construction companies with fixed workshops such as joineries. 

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