Inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, and the 26 District Councils have begun an enforcement initiative, in order to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation by businesses using woodworking equipment. The hazards associated with using woodworking machinery where cutting tools or blades are exposed are well known. In addition, a variety of health problems are common in those who work with, or near such equipment. Such health problems can be caused by noise, dust and manual handling.
A survey conducted by the Health and Safety Executive in Great Britain estimated that 27% of major injuries in the woodworking industry were caused by machinery. In addition, other major injuries were caused by kickback of timber and ejected cutters. By comparison, only 10% of major injuries were caused by machinery in the general manufacturing industry. The cause of accidents in the woodworking industry can largely be attributed to inadequate guarding and poor systems of work, often resulting from a lack of training and supervision.
The proper use of guards and safe working practices are essential in reducing the risk of serious accidents and health problems. During the initiative, inspectors will pay particular attention to guarding, braking and limited cutter projection tooling on woodworking machinery, the control of wood dust in the working environment and the handling of materials.
The enforcement initiative will be carried during January and February, and business operators are advised that comprehensive free information can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/woodworking.
For more information see:
