Safe Working
The Basics
Accidents with woodworking machinery are unfortunately both frequent and serious. High-speed sharp cutters on exposed surfaces of wood (which is an infinitely variable material) exemplify the risks associated with wood machining.
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER 98) are a general framework for safe working across all industries and have since been specified for the woodworking industries.
Safe Use of Woodworking Machinery - Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ACOP) is available from HSE Books price £8. WMSA recommends that any business responsible for the operation of woodworking machinery study the valuable advice in this booklet. Copyright restrictions prevent us from supplying it as a PDF download – but do get a copy.
Safety Health Awareness Days (SHAD)
From time to time HSE arranges these awareness events specifically for the woodworking industry. The next SHAD event covers LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation),and is to be held at Uttoxeter race course on 9th June 2009. For further information please contact Wendie.Drammeh@hse.gsi.gov.uk.
Local Exhaust Ventilation System (LEV) Suppliers
WMSA Members offering testing and examination of existing Dust Extraction equipment, and quotations for new dust extraction systems. View List
