571 Operation/Maintenance Instructions Page 15 of 19
this machine consideration must be given to the provision of adequate lighting and working
space.
Repairs and maintenance must only be undertaken by competent technicians. Ensure that all
power supplies are isolated before maintenance work begins. Instructions for routine
maintenance work are also included in this manual.
Health and Safety Advice
Dust
Wood dust can be harmful to health by inhalation and skin contact and concentrations of small
dust particles in the air can form an explosive mixture. These concentrations usually occur in
dust extraction equipment which may be destroyed unless explosion precautions have been
taken in the design and installation of the equipment.
Employers have duties under the Factories Act 1961, The Health And Safety At Work Act 1974
and the Control Of Substances Hazardous To Health Regulations 1988 to control wood dust in
the workplace.
Employers should carry out an adequate assessment of the possible risks to health associated
with wood dust particularly when machining hardwoods, and if necessary seek expert advice as
to the method of dust extraction.
Prevention or control of wood dust exposure should as far as is reasonably practicable, be
achieved by measure other than the provision of personal protective equipment.
Further information and references to practical guidance are contained in free leaflets from the
Health & Safety Executive, alternatively specialist help and information can be obtained from:
P&J Dust Extraction
Extraction House, Otterham Quay, Rainham, Kent ME8 8NA
Tel. 0163 423 3933 Fax. 0163 423 4588
Noise
Noise levels can vary widely from machine to machine depending on conditions of use. Persons
exposed to high noise levels, even for a short time, may experience temporary partial hearing
loss and continuous exposure to high levels can result in permanent hearing damage. The
Woodworking Machines Regulations require employers to take reasonably practicable measures
to reduce noise levels where any person is likely to be exposed to a continuous equivalent noise
level of 90 dB(A) or more over an 8 hour working day. Additionally, suitable ear protectors must
be provided, maintained and worn.
Machines identified as generating unhealthy noise levels should be appropriately marked with a
warning of the need to wear hearing protection and it may be necessary to designate particular
areas of the workplace as ‘Ear Protection Zones’. Suitable warning signs are specified in the
Safety Signs Regulations 1995. It may be necessary to construct a suitable enclosure, in which
professional advice should be sought.
Further information and references to practical guidance are contained in free leaflets available
from The Health & Safety Executive.
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