Woodworking – Are your workers being protected?
In November, the HSE published the health and safety statistics for Great Britain (2022 to 2023).
The latest statistics published show an estimated 12,000 people died from lung diseases linked to exposure to hazardous substances at work.
There were an estimated 19,000 new cases of breathing and lung problems thought to be caused or made worse by work. This includes inhalation of wood dust that can cause occupational asthma and, in the case of hardwoods, sinonasal cancer.
Work-related lung diseases have a devastating impact on workers’ lives. If effective controls are in place, occupational lung diseases are preventable.
As HSE’s inspection programme targeting woodworking businesses across Great Britain continues, ensure your business is managing the risks. We have free resources and guidance for woodworking. You can:
- visit the HSE Dust Kills woodworking campaign website
- download our free guidance for woodworking (.pdf)
