Carpentry requires a lot of attention and skill. Not only is this needed to get jobs done to the standards that customers expect, but it is also necessary for safety reasons.
Thousands of woodworkers are injured every year in the U.S. and there are also dozens of fatalities in this industry. What are some of the most common injuries among woodworkers? And how might they be prevented?
Damage to the lungs
Saws go hand in hand with woodwork. Sometimes, these saws are operated manually. On other occasions, the blades may be powered electronically. In either case, dust particles will be released into the air. Even wood particles in themselves can be harmful when inhaled. In cases where asbestos may be present, woodworkers need to be especially careful. Exposure to asbestos can result in life-altering illnesses. Employers should make sure that the working site is fully safe before activity commences. They should also ensure that all employees have access to the relevant Personal Protective Equipment.
Eye injuries
Not only do dust particles pose a threat to a person’s lungs, but they can also get into the eyes and cause serious problems. A small particle of dust, wood or metal that enters the eyes can be tricky to remove, and the longer it stays in there, the more damage that might be caused. All workers should have easy access to suitable protective eye equipment and there should also be safety protocols in place should an eye injury occur.
Injuries to the hands
Through the use of sharp blades and power tools, the hands and fingers are especially at risk. In fact, this is the most common type of injury associated with woodwork. Woodworkers rely on their hands to carry out their daily work, and losing the ability to use them can make life very difficult.
There are numerous tools utilized in woodwork that can be helpful but also potentially dangerous. If you have been injured on-site in Schuylkill county, be sure to assess your legal options.