Whether you own a small, workshop-sized shop or a large commercial operation, dust collection is a must in the woodworking industry. A good dust collector may get pushed down your list of priorities, particularly if you own a smaller workshop – however, it does not pay to underestimate the importance of dust collection for your health and safety. Many woodworkers know the negative effects of wood dust exposure on their health, and the worst part is that as workers get desensitized to it, they may start to experience long-term effects. Do not let that happen to you or your workers – invest in a good dust collection system today.
Health Considerations
Both the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have published information about the consequences of long-term exposure to wood dust. Skin and eye irritation, nasal congestion, frequent headaches, asthma and prolonged colds are just some negative aftereffects of wood dust exposure. In serious cases, it can even lead to cancer. You do not want to exposure yourself and your workers to these risks through the lack of a good dust collector, an investment that is sure to go a long way.
Safety
Besides the health considerations, safety has to be taken into account as well. We all know that wood shavings are an excellent fire igniter. You would be surprised at how little it can take to start a fire. Having wood dust in the air not just poses a significant fire hazard, piles of shavings on the floor can also cause you or your workers to slip and fall. When that requires a period of downtime away from the shop, it can end up costing you more out of pocket. Do not make the mistake of thinking that it is sufficient to simply sweep wood shavings and sawdust away with a broom, out of sight. The dangers of not investing in a proper dust collector can be multifold.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
Needless to say, it can be hard to do your best work when you are constantly coughing and your eyes are running due to all the dust in the air. In addition, if you are constantly sidestepping the pile of shavings and sawdust strewn all over the workshop, it does not make for the most conducive working environment. When you purchase a dust collector, it does all the work for you while you are working, freeing up your time to focus on the more important aspects of work instead of wasting time cleaning up.
Purchase Dust Collectors from Pacific Dust Collectors
If your workshop does not currently make use of a dust collector, it’s high time you purchased one. Coming with lots of health and safety benefits while allowing your workers to focus on the more important tasks, a dust collector is an investment that will serve you well for years to come. If you have any queries or would like a recommendation, please feel free to contact us today.
