A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

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CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The legal framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Risk Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Consultation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Reasonably practicable control measures . . . . . . . . 4 Information for employers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

4. ENVIRONMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Wood dust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Dangerous goods and hazardous substances . . . . 37 Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Housekeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Plant layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Protective clothing and equipment (PPE) . . . . . . . . 39

1. PLANT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Guarding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Using hand tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

OTHER USEFUL GUIDANCE MATERIAL . . . . . . . . . . 41 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

2. MANUAL HANDLING AT THE WORKPLACE . . . . . 15

Manual Handling and Musculoskeletal Disorders . . 16 Removal of raw material from storage . . . . . . . . . . 18 Transport of materials on the shop floor . . . . . . . . . 20 Handling trolleys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Manufacturing product at workstations. . . . . . . . . . 24 Unloading finished products from the production line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Loading finished product . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Unloading product and on-site installation. . . . . . . . 30

3. MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Disclaimer This publication may contain occupational health and safety and workers compensation information. It may include some of your obligations under the various legislations that WorkCover NSW administers. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations you must refer to the appropriate legislation. Information on the latest laws can be checked by visiting the NSW legislation website (www.legislation.nsw.gov.au) or by contacting the free hotline service on 02 9321 3333. This publication does not represent a comprehensive statement of the law as it applies to particular problems or to individuals or as a substitute for legal advice. You should seek independent legal advice if you need assistance on the application of the law to your situation. WorkCover NSW

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION

This guide demonstrates WorkCover NSWs expectations on how to best eliminate or reduce the risk of injuries in the wood products manufacturing industry. Many risk controls detailed in this guide have already been implemented in the industry in both Victoria and NSW.

Working across borders

This publication aims to give you practical and consistent guidance to prevent injuries in the wood products manufacturing industry in NSW. It was developed by WorkSafe Victoria and adapted by WorkCover NSW.

THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK

There is a legislative framework around controlling risk in consultation with Health and Safety Representatives and employees within the workplace and this guide shows how to comply with the: NSW Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000. (NSW OHS Act).

HAZARD IDENTIFICATION, RISK ASSESSMENT AND RISK CONTROL Hazard identification

This guide identifies tasks in the wood products manufacturing industry that are hazardous and can result in injuries. However, it is not a comprehensive list of all hazardous tasks in the industry.

Risk assessment
Further, this guide cannot replace the requirement for risk assessment and risk control as the risk of an injury will vary depending on the circumstances in your workplace. To ensure a reduction in injuries, employers should review risks and develop and implement a plan for controls this should be done in consultation with Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs), and employees. For the purposes of this guide, HSRs include occupational health and safety representatives and occupational health and safety committees under the NSW OHS Act.

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION
Risk control
Risk controls are shown in this guide. The NSW Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 (OHS Regulation 2001) places obligations on employers to identify all foreseeable hazards in the workplace, assess the risks that these hazards pose to health and safety and to eliminate or control those risks. It is the duty of an employer to carry out risk control under the OHS Regulation 2001, and eliminate the risk. If it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk, the employer must control the risk using the hierarchy of controls: 1. Substituting the hazard giving rise to the risk with a hazard that gives rise to a lesser risk; 2. isolating the hazard from the person put at risk; 3. minimising the risk by engineering means; 4. minimising the risk by administrative means such as adopting safe working practices or providing appropriate training information and instruction; 5. using protective equipment.

A combination of controls often gives the best solution.

Consulting HSRs and employees, and trialling proposed solutions will determine if they are right for your workplace or if further modifications or different controls are required. It is necessary to monitor the success or otherwise of the controls implemented. Provision of information, training and instruction cannot be used as the sole or primary way of controlling the risk unless all other ways to control risk are not reasonably practicable. Where training is provided, it must be both task specific and competency based in order to be effective. Supervisors must themselves be competent in how to best use specific risk controls and must be supported in this role. There should also be appropriate supervision of safety as well as production. You should always check the legislation referred to in this material and make your own judgement about what action you may need to take to ensure you have complied with the law. Note: This guide should be used in conjunction with the OHS Regulation 2001 and relevant Codes of Practice.

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION
CONSULTATION
All employers are required to consult their employees, so far as reasonably practicable, on matters that may directly affect employees health, safety or welfare. Employers must consult with employees on hazard identification, risk assessment and risk control as well as any proposed changes in the workplace, plant, substances or work processes that could impact on workers health, safety or welfare. This includes encouraging labour hire workers to participate in the workplace consultative arrangement. If there are elected HSRs, employers should ensure they are involved in the consultative process. In NSW, employees in these roles have a legal entitlement to attend a training course designed in line with OHS Consultation Code of Practice 2001. The type of training delivered will depend on the type of consultative arrangement implemented at the workplace. The duty to consult recognises that employee input and participation improves decision-making about health and safety matters. Consultation between employers and employees is an essential part of effectively managing health and safety at work. It is a legal requirement and is a valuable means of improving health and safety outcomes. Through consultation, employers can become more aware of hazards and OHS issues experienced by employees they can also provide suggestions about how to solve OHS problems. Employee participation allows them to contribute to determining how the work can be done safely. It is important to remember that consultation is a form of negotiation and not simply a notification of change process. This process allows for issues to be discussed and the sharing of ideas across all levels of the organisation in an attempt to find the most practicable solution to identified hazards or issues on-site. For more information on the duty to consult please refer to the following publications: OHS Act 2000 Chapter 3 OHS Regulation 2001 Part 2, Divisions 2 OHS Consultation Code of Practice 2001.

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION
INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYERS
The use of contractors, labour hire employees and trainees is not uncommon in the wood products manufacturing industry. These workers are the responsibility of the host employer if they are engaged to work on site, particularly in relation to matters over which they have control. Both labour hire companies and host organisations have the duty to ensure labour hire workers are provided with safe workplaces. Before entering into a labour hire worker contract, both the labour hire company and host organisation should ensure that: training, skills and experience of workers are verified and match the needs of the task identification, assessment and control of all the risks associated with the task must be completed before the work commences the worker is inducted into systems of work the worker is adequately supervised the worker has the opportunity to consult with both the on-hire employer and host organisation the worker knows what to do when health and safety issues arise in the hosts workplace. There is specific guidance for both host employers and labour hire agencies available in hardcopy and on the WorkCover website. host employer guidance information: Managing the safety of labour hire workers labour hire agencies: Managing the safety of on-hired workers For further information visit www.workcover.nsw.gov.au

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

INTRODUCTION
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
This guide provides examples of tasks undertaken in wood products manufacturing, but it does not cover all tasks. Therefore, it is important to review your own operations and apply some of the solutions or principles shown. The red, amber and green or traffic light format used throughout this guide can help you identify high risk activities and assess your workplace, allowing you to implement safer work practices. The rationale is simple: to reduce injury rates and compensation claims, high risk situations must be addressed. If you are able to tick any of the boxes in the red which represent high risk activities then you should read further about the reduced risk and low risk controls shown. If high risk practices are followed in your workplace, you should determine if you can implement the solutions in the green column. If this isnt practicable, put in place the comparable practice in the amber column as a reduced risk solution. In the amber and green columns, the solutions listed first are preferred and will generally be more effective than solutions towards the bottom of the column. Solutions in the amber and green sections in this guide provide some different options. This is because the tasks, and hence the risk, will vary according to the specifics at your workplace.

HIGH RISK
The practices in the red boxes or column should not be used in workplaces; an employer who allows these practices to be used is likely to be in breach of OHS legislation

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

The solutions in the amber column are less effective in reducing risk compared to those in the green column, and would be regularly reviewed with the aim to move towards higher order solutions (green)

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

The solutions in the green column are the most effective at reducing risk and should be regarded as the target for all workplaces

Red, high risk, column

Solutions should continue to be reviewed as higher order controls become more practicable

Are any solutions from the green column reasonably practicable for the workplace?

YES

Implement a solution from the green, preferred solution, column

NO
Implement solutions from the amber, reduced risk, column

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PLANT NEW SECTION

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GUARDING USING HAND TOOLS

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

PLANT
PLANT IN WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING What is plant?
Plant includes any machinery, equipment or appliance used to enhance the capacity of employees to perform tasks. Plant can be a simple lever, a tool or a complex machine. A person operating woodworking plant is often applying a cutting blade at high speed to timber. Some of the processes included in wood product manufacturing include cutting, routing, thicknessing, shaping, tenoning, etc. Manufacturers are often making products to order rather than high volume production. This requires plant to be frequently set-up for different product runs. There is also a tendency for one-off cuts or shapes to be required in normal operation. For these reasons alone, it is paramount that plant be operated in a safe manner. In many cases, in order to machine timber it is necessary to have an exposed blade to the timber. Employers must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all plant is guarded to prevent an operator coming into contact with exposed blades or trapping spaces. Employers must ensure introducing risk controls to reduce the risk of injuries does not introduce other hazards or risks into a system of work. For example; the introduction of a forklift requires the implementation of a traffic management plan to segregate pedestrians from forklifts where mechanical aids or other load shifting equipment is used, such as powered pallet jacks, ensure employees are trained and competent in its use when transferring cabinet carcases using lifting gear, ensure loads are carried within the manufacturers safe working load (SWL) and implement a program to monitor damage to shackles, slings etc changes to equipment will require a plant risk assessment be conducted to ensure employees are not injured by newly introduced hazards such as trapping points or in-running nip points and that controls are put in place if risk is present.

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PLANT
Training and supervision
Employees who operate, maintain or are required to work in close proximity of plant must be trained and supervised in the operation of that plant. Complacency has been identified as one of the factors leading to many injuries when operating new plant. The inexperience of employees is a potential hazard and employers should ensure new or inexperienced employees are not left to work alone on hazardous plant. Other risk control solutions that can be used include: ensuring the right machine is used for the right purpose controlling production output in the workplace to ensure safety is still a priority a grading system related to training for operators and maintenance consultation between management and employees about guarding and machine operating procedures.

Push pads and push sticks

These tools are used as aides to assist operators when using wood working plant. For instance, a push pad is used to better isolate the operators hands from the cutting blade on a buzzer. Push sticks are often used to push timber through a rip saw. When using these mechanical aids the following administrative controls should be followed: Push sticks should never be used to: remove off cuts from a running machine heat up a blade by applying a friction force using the stick

Kick back
A common problem associated with the manufacture of timber products is the kick back associated with rotating plant and machinery. This poses a risk to the operator when the timber being sawn or machined binds to the blade and kicks back towards them. In these instances the guarding or riving knives may have been removed. Other situations that can lead to issues with kick back include knots in the timber or using the wrong tool (either too powerful or not powerful enough) for the task, or a saw blade that is blunt or worn.

GUARDING
There are many types of guarding systems available to guard dangerous parts of machinery to prevent bodily access. If guarding is to be used as a control measure, the employer is required to ensure that any guard designed for the plant will, so far as is reasonably practicable, prevent access to the danger point or area of the plant. The guarding that is to be installed onto plant should be designed and installed by a suitably qualified and competent person. There may be instances where the guarding is to be designed and installed by an electrical contractor or someone other than the manufacturer or supplier. It is important to ensure whoever designs and installs guarding is familiar with the current Australian Standard AS4024 2006, Safety of Machinery, Part 1201: General Principles Basic terminology and methodology and the current Australian Standard that relates to the equipment being guarded. The plant guarding hierarchy is as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. Permanently fixed physical barrier Interlocked physical barrier Physical barrier (fixed guard) Presence sensing system

A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

PLANT
Permanently fixed physical barrier
Permanently fixed physical barriers are normally used where there is no requirement for access during operation, maintenance or cleaning of the plant.

The underside of the spindle moulder is a permanently fixed guard. The housing of the machine prevents access to the motor, drive shaft or other dangerous parts.

Interlocked physical barrier

An interlock guard is one that is moveable or has a moveable part. The movement of the guard interacts with the dangerous parts of the plant or the control system of the plant to prevent motion of the dangerous parts while the guard is open. The interlocking system must be designed to fail to safety so it can not be defeated. The run-down time needs to be taken into account so that access is only available when sufficient time has lapsed for the motion of the danger parts has ceased.

The covering doors on the saw are interlocked so that when the doors are opened, the systems shut down power and air to the saw.

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PLANT
Physical barrier (fixed guard)
A fixed guard (with no moving parts) that prevents access to the dangerous part of the machinery and provides protection while the guard is in its intended position is needed. The physical barrier can only be altered or removed by the use of a tool.

A hinged door acts as a physical barrier preventing access to the drive wheel of a bandsaw. The door is bolted shut with non-conventional head bolts that can only be removed using a special tool.

Where better vision of the cutting blade is required, use polycarbonate guards (e.g. panel saw).

Presence sensing system

These guards are usually an unseen barrier created by photoelectric or similar devices capable of electronically detecting intrusion into the hazardous area of a machine. The presence-sensing system then shuts off power to the plant and may, depending on the plant, brake the existing motion. These systems are designed with a high level of reliability and are designed to fail to safe when the system is activated.

Automatic routing machine with a light curtain detection system to prevent access to the machine.

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PLANT
USING HAND TOOLS
The definition of hand tools used in this document is a tool used with a persons hands. It includes: tools that are designed for force to be applied by the person, including screwdrivers, hammers, chisels, hacksaws, etc, and tools where the force is applied by a power source but needs a person to hold the tool such as portable electric or battery drills, sanders or saws, pneumatic impulse tools, spray guns or nail guns, etc. The Musculoskeletal disorders risks from hand tool usage mainly result from: Tool design weight, shape, fit to user, vibration, recoil, shock loading Workstation design size, shape and layout Task design frequency, duration, speed of tool usage Tool maintenance poorly maintained tools may compromise safety and also increase the effort required to use them.

Poor hand tool design and excessive use of hand tools are associated with chronic disorders of the hand, wrist and forearm such as carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist tendonitis. Major factors affecting the potential for injury include: Muscular effort in using tools (holding, operating and guiding) because of poor handle design, or heavy, poorly balanced and/or poorly maintained tools Static loading of arm and shoulder muscles from holding tools that can lead to fatigue when maintained for prolonged periods, and eventually to injury Awkward wrist positions that mean a tool is held with the wrist bent up, down or sideways causing additional muscular effort in using tools Contact stresses that result in pressure on tissues or joints, such as tools pressing into the palm at the base of the thumb where blood vessels and nerves pass through the hand. This contributes to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome Wide grip span can cause tendon injury known as trigger finger. The risk is increased when force is exerted at the limits of the grip span.

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

PLANT
CONTROL OPTIONS - HAND TOOL SELECTION
Well maintained tools matched to the person and the task, used infrequently at well designed workstations do not cause harm. It is when they do not match the person or the task or are used repeatedly and/or for long periods that hand tool and work area design become critical. The best hand tool to select is one that: matches the task you are doing fits the workspace available reduces the force that needs to be applied fits your hand can be used in a comfortable position is well maintained.

Fit the tool to the person, not the person to the tool

CHECKLIST - HAND TOOL USE

Answers in a red box indicates the choice of hand tool may not be appropriate for the task being performed

YES
1. Are tools used which bend the wrist up, down or sideways? 2. Are tools selected which are: a) able to be used in either hand? b) evenly balanced? c) designed for specific purpose? 3. Are tools of more than 1.5 kg used without aids to assist in supporting them? 4. Tool handle design. Are problems caused because they: a) need to be held firmly through not having good friction with the hand? b) are made of non-resilient material (e.g. metal, etc.)? c) dig into the palm area? d) require use of a wide grip span (scissors or pliers, etc.) which is excessive (more than 10cm) or cause discomfort? e) require a lot of force applied by the back of the fingers and thumb to open the handles of tools such as pliers, scissors or shears? 5. Tool handle dimensions: a) do they have a grip diameter suitable for most workers? b) are they long enough to pass along the whole hand/palm and allow all of the hand and fingers to stay on the grip? 6. Does the design of the trigger allow: a) use by only one hand? b) activation only by the finger tips? c) it to be locked on if activated for more than 30 seconds? 7 Is there repeated shock to the hand or wrist through tool design, such as the reaction of power tools . after the torque limit is reached? 8. Can torque be resisted other than by muscle force?

NO

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PLANT
Using hand tools
Referring to the checklist above, does your task involve the following?

HIGH RISK

RISK CONTROL SOLUTIONS

Manual handling

Heavy tools can cause awkward postures and excessive force

Use lightweight or powered alternatives, if available Tools should be presented at a comfortable height for the operator

Quality
Cheap tools have hazards associated with them - high vibration - electrical safety (not double insulated) - fractures of cutting blades - flimsy guards - lack of operating instructions - may not meet Australian Standards - noise levels - no fail safe protection Use fibreglass and vibration cancelling hammers, if required for manual hammering operations Use double insulated electrical power tools and earth leakage circuit breakers for all electrical equipment Restart and overload protection Safety clutch Ensure tools meet Australian standards (AS/NZ 60745.1:2003)

Air tools
Can be large and awkward to operate in confined areas Require an air line to be attached at all times Use smaller air tools in confined areas. Use battery/gas powered tools to reduce the need for air lines

Air powered nail gun Can be noisy Incorrect air line connections Cordless framing nail gun Silencers on the air tools to reduce the noise levels Use correct connections for the tools.

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

PLANT
HIGH RISK RISK CONTROL SOLUTIONS
Air tools
Pull Back Release 2. Pull Back To disconnect 1. Pull Back 3. Release

Single Ridge Single action air line connection Using damaged or faulty air compressors

Double Ridge Double action air line connection Use well maintained air compressors

Well maintained air compressor Damaged air compressor Relocate air compressors outside to reduce noise Use hose stands to keep air lines off the ground

Stand with coiled air hose used to reduce clutter Direct plumbing of air lines into workstations

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2 X

MANUAL HANDLING NEW SECTION

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MANUAL HANDLING AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS REMOVAL OF RAW MATERIAL FROM STORAGE TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS ON THE SHOP FLOOR HANDLING TROLLEYS MANUFACTURING PRODUCT AT WORKSTATIONS UNLOADING FINISHED PRODUCTS LOADING FINISHED PRODUCT UNLOADING AND ON-SITE INSTALLATION

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

MANUAL HANDLING
MANUAL HANDLING AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS Manual handling
For the wood products manufacturing industry, manual handling covers a wide range of activities such as handling wood in and out of machinery, transport of materials within the workplace, loading finished product for delivery, delivery and on-site installation. Many of these tasks can result in musculoskeletal disorders and other types of injuries. However, not all manual handling is hazardous. In this industry, hazardous manual handling refers to manual handling with any of the following characteristics: repetitive or sustained application of force repetitive or sustained awkward posture repetitive or sustained movement application of high force exposure to sustained vibration unstable or unbalanced loads or loads which are difficult to grasp or hold.

Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are sometimes referred to as sprains and strains. It is a term used to describe a wide variety of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system including injuries to joints, ligaments, intervertebral discs and other structures in the back and injuries to joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves in the wrists, elbows, arms, shoulders, neck, abdomen (e.g. hernia), hips, knees and legs. Some of these conditions are sometimes described as repetitive strain injury (RSI), occupational overuse syndrome (OOS), cumulative trauma disorder (CTD) and work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WRMSD).

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MANUAL HANDLING
GENERAL PRINCIPLES
Postures, movements and forces that are known to be associated with MSD should be eliminated from the workplace where possible. Physical changes to workplace design, layout and plant are more effective than administrative risk controls such as training. To accommodate for different people and tasks, workstations should be quick and easy to adjust. No employee should be required to routinely work above their shoulder height or below their knees or at full reach distance. Keep loads close to the body. Avoid extreme postures when exerting high force. Reduce hand-arm vibration from power tools by selecting the appropriate tool, isolating vibration, reducing or dampening the tools vibration, or reducing the time exposed to it.

GREEN - LOW RISK

AMBER - MEDIUM RISK

The best working zone is described as the area between the shoulders and knees. The guide cannot replace the requirement for risk assessment and risk control, as the risk of developing MSD will vary depending on the circumstances in each workplace. To ensure a reduction in MSD, employers should review manual handling risks and develop and implement a plan for controls in consultation with employees. For more information on assessing manual handling risks please refer to the Manual Handling Risk Guide publication or visit the WorkCover NSW website.

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

RED - HIGH RISK

MANUAL HANDLING
REMOVAL OF RAW MATERIAL FROM STORAGE
Raw materials are taken from the storage area and moved through to the beginning of the manufacturing process. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Pushing or pulling objects that are hard to move or stop, e.g. handling timber from the top of a storage rack

TICK

Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. handling heavy material from the ground

Repetitive bending of the back more than 20 degrees, e.g. reaching into racking to handle timber

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Use mobile steps and height adjustable trolleys to remove timber from racks Use appropriate storage locations Storage should occur within the best working zone between shoulders and knees wherever possible Keep floors clean, smooth and well maintained Use of appropriate hand trolleys

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Install custom designed racking systems so material can be moved by forklift

Custom designed storage racking for raw materials Load timber on mobile trolleys in storage location Trolley used for moving lengths of timber to production line

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MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK) PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Mobile storage racking for raw material Use mechanical aids such as vacuum lifting equipment for handling heavy or large product in or out of racking, where practicable

A vacuum lifter attached to a mobile jib crane Use appropriate load shifting equipment, e.g. forklifts or walking stackers for moving timber

Electric walking stacker for moving bulk raw materials

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MANUAL HANDLING
TRANSPORT OF MATERIALS ON THE SHOP FLOOR
Raw materials are moved within the workplace from the raw material storage area, through each production process, to the distribution of the finished product. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Pushing or pulling objects that are hard to move or stop, e.g. moving timber frames, glass or other products around the shop floor Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. unloading long or heavy raw materials

TICK

Repetitive bending of the back more than 20 degrees, e.g. reaching and lifting product from packs or pallets

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Use A-frame trolleys to transport large and heavy raw materials and manufactured product throughout the production process

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Use mechanical aids like overhead cranes and vacuum lifters to reduce the need for materials to be moved manually.

A-frame trolley used to transport glass Vacuum lifter used to transfer raw timber to machine table

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MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK) PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

A-frame trolley used to transport window frames Use L -frame trolleys to transport large and heavy raw materials throughout the production process

Vacuum lift for glazing windows Use hydraulic lifts/scissor tables to reduce bending

Scissor lift to raise boards of MDF to the correct height for transfer to wood working machinery

L -Frame trolley

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)
Ensure trolleys are designed with wide wheels which have large diameters

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Use spring lifters with turntables to reduce awkward postures, forward bending and reaching when handling product

Trolley used to move cut lengths of timber to designated production areas. When using stands or trolleys, implement a system where wood product is stored in such a way that does not require the operator to lift below knee height or above shoulder height Use conveyors to move timber from one workstation to the next in the production process

A spring lifter with a pallet ring in the photo above minimises reaching and forward bending for the employee Air tables fixed to plant and machinery help to reduce the force needed to move heavier pieces

Fixed roller conveyors used to transport timber between work stations

Air table uses compressed air and rollers to float the item so it requires a small force to move heavy timber along it

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MANUAL HANDLING
HANDLING TROLLEYS POTENTIAL HAZARD SOURCE RISK CONTROL
Trolley design and number
Poor trolley design results in a high centre of gravity so that pushing over uneven surfaces may tip trolley Use lightweight or powered alternatives, if available Tools should be presented at a comfortable height for the operator Good handles provided, e.g. vertical handles will fit a large range of users Sufficient number of trolleys also allows for maintenance. Limit height to which trolley can be stacked. Have load rating marked on trolley Trolleys fitted with strapping. systems to ensure loads do not shift during transport. Installation of braking systems onto trolleys to ensure that they do not move when unattended

No handles provided or the handles provided are too low so that force is applied in awkward postures Insufficient trolleys resulting in over stacking the available ones Stacking too high affecting visibility so that the user needs to adopt an awkward posture to see around the load Exceeding rated load Stacking too high will affect the stability of the trolley and will raise the centre of gravity (COG) of the trolley and load. Forces applied above the COG will tend to topple the trolley

Caster Choice
Flat tyres or flat spots make the trolley difficult to get moving when manually pushed or pulled Small diameter castors Solid tyres or ones with adequate tyre pressure

Large diameter casters. Low resistance bearings

Floor surfaces
Cracks, uneven or non smooth floors can make the trolleys harder to move by increasing the pushing forces Steep gradients on ramps increase the force to push or pull trolleys Wet floors create risk of slipping Inspections and regular maintenance to keep floor surfaces clean and smooth Ensure trolleys are handled on flat or low gradient surfaces Ensure floor surfaces are suitable for wet areas

Housekeeping
Slippery floors due to water, oils etc. make it harder to move the trolley Regular cleaning results in work areas kept clean and free of slip and fall hazards, as much as practicable

Maintenance
Damaged trolleys and castors make it harder to move the trolley and make it more likely to overturn Immediate removal for repair and replacement of damaged trolleys. Implementation of a systematic preventative maintenance system for trolleys and castors

An example of a good reference guide on pushing trolleys is The Ergonomics of Manual Material Handling pushing and pulling tasks also known as the Darcor and Ergoweb white paper on trolleys. It may be viewed online at www.darcor.com/library_wp.htm

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MANUAL HANDLING
MANUFACTURING PRODUCT AT WORKSTATIONS
Through the various stages of manufacturing, products may be handled a number of times and from a range of postures. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Repetitive twisting the back more than 20 degrees, e.g. handling product from pallets to processing machinery Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. moving and manoeuvring timber frames at a production station Sustained forward bending of the back more than 20 degrees, e.g. working on or over timber that is lying on the floor

TICK

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Use a mechanical aid to reduce lifting and bending to move product from a work station

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Use air table to handle heavy product into processing plant

Tilt bench to transfer frame from work bench to trolley Non powered height adjustable tables designed to reduce the need to lift products on and off work stations Angled work tables designed to allow working postures that are more upright

Handling heavy timber panels is made easier using an air table, as in the photo above. Use powered adjustable height work stations designed to reduce bending and the need to lift product on of off the work station

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MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK) PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Tilt bench for working on piece furniture Use combination trolleys that also pivot to act as a temporary work bench

Height adjustable jig that forms part of a roller conveyor. Use powered mechanical aids to eliminate the need to manually handle wood products

The trolley above is used to raise and orient the product for the employee

Inverter that automatically rotates a door on a sanding line. Use adjustable height scissor lift work bench to enable the operator to work without excessive bending

Hydraulic pallet lift table used as a work bench

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MANUAL HANDLING
UNLOADING FINISHED PRODUCTS FROM THE PRODUCTION LINE
Finished product is often manually handled from the final stage of the production process and stored prior to distribution. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Lifting, lowering or carrying heavy loads, e.g. handling the completed timber product from a work station Pushing or pulling objects that are hard to move or to stop, e.g. moving and manoeuvring timber frames from a work station Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. handling completed product into storage areas

TICK

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Use of height adjustable racking or conveyors to move finished materials

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Use of vacuum lifters to move products

Vacuum lifter is used to load sofas into stillages Extendable or moveable conveyors can be used to help move completed products Use of height adjustable trolleys to move products to the storage location Use of rollers on work stations to move products to stacks Use of lifting slings and overhead cranes where appropriate within the workplace Using appropriate load shifting equipment such as forklifts or walking stackers Using appropriate racking systems for the product

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MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK) PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Rollers on work stations to move finished frames to stacks

Finished furniture products in racking

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MANUAL HANDLING
LOADING FINISHED PRODUCT
Loading finished wood products into vehicles for transport to customers often involves hazardous manual handling. A variety of different sizes and weights can be loaded for distribution. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. handling the completed timber product from storage areas Pushing or pulling objects that are hard to move or to stop, e.g. moving completed product to vehicle loading areas Lifting, lowering or carrying heavy loads, e.g. lifting large or heavy completed timber frames up onto a truck

TICK

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Select vehicles which allow easier handling of product

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Use mechanical aids such as vacuum lifters to move and load finished product

Specially designed trucks to load product at waist height Use pallet decks in a loading bay to raise product to the same height as the delivery truck Use trucks with tail gate loader (a powered drop down tray) to raise the product for loading

Vacuum lift is used to load sofas into stillages

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MANUAL HANDLING
INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)
Employer to establish weight guidelines in consultation with employees. Any products that exceed those weight limits will need to be loaded in sections. Other options include glazing on-site for windows or delivering in modules for cabinets and in-built furniture. Using gravity roller systems to load products into the back of trucks

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Vacuum lift is used to palletise finished product Use raised docking bays or dock-levellers to allow products to be loaded at the same height as the truck Load straight onto the truck from the production line Use cranes and slings to load trucks Use roller tables to move product to stacks

Truck is backed to a docking bay at the same height.

Retractable rollers on workbench to remove manufactured products

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MANUAL HANDLING
UNLOADING PRODUCT AND ON-SITE INSTALLATION
Finished wood products transported to customers need to be unloaded and installed. The site conditions sometimes increase the difficulty of the manual handling tasks. Does the work involve any of the following?

HIGH RISK
Exerting high force while in an awkward posture, e.g. materials or machinery obstruct access on site

TICK

Lifting, lowering or carrying heavy loads, e.g. moving completed product from vehicle on site

Holding or supporting a heavy object, e.g. installing cabinets overhead without aids or props

INTERIM WORK PRACTICE (MEDIUM RISK)

Clear access to site. Ability for delivery trucks to enter the site Site representative to coordinate and give delivery location point Delivery time should be pre-organised between wood products manufacturer and the builder Deliver wood products in flat-packs which can be more easily moved to the point of installation before being assembled Establish a safe system of work that includes an agreed ratio of employees for the weight and difficulty of the task Reduce overall loads by handling modules wherever practicable Implement on-site glazing for windows Use props or stands when installing overhead cabinets Use mechanical aids such as trolleys to assist in unloading and transporting finished product to its installation location wherever possible

PREFERRED SOLUTION (LOW RISK)

Site risk assessments to be supplied by builders for sub-contractor A system of work that specifies designated delivery and drop off points for all products For multi-storey buildings obtain information such as lifting specifications, size of corridors, stair access and available storage and provide this to employees Use lifting aids like materials hoists, overhead cranes, forklifts, hydraulic lift tables, height adjustable trolleys and jigs wherever possible Traffic management issues to be addressed when delivery vehicle cannot completely enter the site or restricts access to the footpath

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MANUAL HANDLING
CHECKLIST FOR THE MANUFACTURER OF GOODS LOADING AND UNLOADING OF TRUSS AND FRAME STOCK TO BE COMPLETED BY THE TRUSS MANUFACTURER BEFORE THE TRANSPORT OPERATOR RECEIVES THE TRUSSES 1. RISK ASSESSMENT
a. Have you assessed the risks associated with your truss and frame delivery operations? Yes No Action:

b. Does the assessment consider safety at unloading premises? Yes No Action:

2. PLANNING FOR SAFE UNLOADING

To ensure the safe delivery of goods, the manufacturer and the builder should agree a safe work method, which describes how the goods are to be safely unloaded. (i) Do you collect any information from the builder about how they require materials to be unloaded at their premises? Yes No Action: If Yes, please go on to a. If No, go to ii. a. What information is collected? Site access restrictions Special unloading requirements Other (please state): b. At what stage is the information collected? When materials are ordered Other (please state): c. Who collects it? Sales Driver Manager Other (please state): Between order and deliver When delivery arrives on site Lifting equipment available on site Capacity of lifting equipment Where unloading will take place

d. How is the information recorded? e. How is the information collected used? (Is it forwarded to transport operator?) f. How is the method recorded? (ii) Do you agree proposed method of unloading with the builder prior to delivery and is the transport operator Yes No involved in the consultation? If Yes, please go on to a. If No, go to 3. Action:

a. Is the transport operator involved in this consultation? b. When and how is the method of unloading agreed? c. Do you produce delivery plans for safe unloading? d. If so, are delivery plans in documented? Yes Yes No

Yes

No

Action:

No Action:

Action:

3. LIASON WITH TRANSPORT OPERATOR/HAULIER

The transport operator must be made aware of the means for safe unloading on site. Do you provide instructions and information to the transport operator or haulier on how the materials are to be unloaded safely? Yes
32

No

Action:
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MANUAL HANDLING
CHECKLIST FOR THE TRANSPORT OPERATOR LOADING AND UNLOADING OF TRUSS AND FRAME STOCK TO BE COMPLETED BY THE TRANSPORT OPERATOR BEFORE RECEIVES THE TRUSSES FROM THE MANUFACTURER 1. RISK ASSESSMENT
a. Have you assessed the risks associated with your truss and frame delivery operations? Yes No Action: Yes No Action:

b. Does the assessment consider safety at unloading premises?

2. PLANNING FOR SAFE UNLOADING

To ensure the safe delivery of goods, the manufacturer and the builder should agree a safe work method, which describes how the goods are to be safely unloaded. Do you collect any information from the builder about how they require materials to be unloaded at their premises? Yes No Action:

3. LIAISON WITH TRANSPORT MANUFACTURER

The manufacturer must tell the transport operator about the means for safe unloading on site. Has the manufacturer provided instructions and information to you on how the materials are to be unloaded safely? Yes No Action: If Yes, please go on to a. If No, go to b. a. Are the instructions in writing? Yes No Action: Yes No Action:

b. Have you provided any training for your driver on safe delivery?

c. Do you check the method that was used after it has taken place to make sure it provided safe unloading? Yes No Action:

4. MEANS OF UNLOADING
Unloading should be properly planned and carried out in a safe manner a. What means do you normally use for unloading? Vehicle mounted crane Manual unloading Builders crane Other (please state): Builders forklift truck

b. Is your delivery transport operator usually involved in the unloading process? Yes No Action:

c. Who is in charge of unloading? Transport operator Any worker at building site Designated worker at building site Other (please state): Manager at building site

d. Where builders lifting equipment is used, is this done in accordance with a safe lifting plan? Yes No Action: Yes No Action:

e. If you use a vehicle mounted crane, has your driver been trained in its safe use?

f. Does the means of unloading have any affect on how materials are packaged or how the delivery vehicle is loaded? Yes No Action:

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MANUAL HANDLING

g. Is there a need to access the tray or the load to remove restraints? Yes No Action:

h. Are safe means of access provided for transport operators and others getting on or off the vehicle trailer beds? Yes No Action:

i. Is there a programme of routine maintenance to ensure that the vehicle trailers are kept in a safe condition? Yes No Action:

j. Do you ever unload goods manually? Yes No Action:

k. Is the decision to unload goods manually ever taken by the transport operator once he arrives on site? Yes No Action:

l. If a load cannot be unloaded safely from a vehicle do drivers have instructions as to what I do? E.g. If there are unexpected weather conditions, a crane isnt available as planned etc. Yes No Action:

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X 3
Does the task involve the following?

NEW SECTION MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING

Lorper adiamet la facillan heniscidunt Heniscidunt il ing eros orperet La facillan heniscidunt il ing eros

Plant and equipment used in the manufacturing process requires regular maintenance and cleaning.

HIGH RISK

RISK CONTROL
Heavy plant

Plant is not isolated prior to cleaning and maintenance Cleaning and maintenance not done on a regular or scheduled basis Cleaning and maintenance performed by untrained personnel Debris and off-cuts allowed to accumulate around plant

A job safety analysis (JSA) or similar assessment of risk is undertaken to ensure the work is safe Ensure a Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) system has been implemented Only trained and competent maintenance personnel to work on plant Regular cleaning and preventative maintenance to occur on a regular, scheduled basis Regular inspections of the workplace and plant to occur to ensure cleaning and maintenance is done Correct lifting equipment is used to move plant, e.g. cranes or forklifts.

Light plant
Plant is not isolated prior to cleaning and maintenance Cleaning and maintenance performed by untrained personnel Cleaning and maintenance not done on a regular and scheduled basis Debris and off-cuts allowed to accumulate around plant Plant is not moved to ensure that all areas around and under the plant are clean Ensure a Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) system has been implemented Only trained and competent maintenance personnel to work on plant Regular cleaning and preventative maintenance to occur on a scheduled basis Regular inspections of the workplace and plant to ensure cleaning and maintenance is done Correct lifting equipment is used to move plant (e.g. cranes or forklifts)

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4 X

ENVIRONMENT NEW SECTION

Lorper adiamet la facillan heniscidunt Heniscidunt il ing eros orperet La facillan heniscidunt il ing eros

NOISE WOOD DUST DANGEROUS GOODS AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES LIGHTING HOUSEKEEPING PLANT LAYOUT PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT SELECTION

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ENVIRONMENT
NOISE
In the wood product manufacturing industry, numerous items of plant and various activities such as nail gunning, hammering frames, sawing sections of timber, and even disposing of timber objects in bins can produce excessive noise that can be damaging. If employees in your workplace are exposed to noise that exceeds the exposure standard of 85 dB(A) averaged over an eight hour period or a peak noise level of 140 dB(c) then your workplace is too noisy. Furthermore, there may be a noise issue if any of the following occurs: employees have to raise their voice to communicate at a distance of one metre employees have a temporary reduction in hearing or ringing in the ears after leaving work for the day, or employees use hearing protectors during the work day. Then the noise regulations set out a hierarchy or order of controls that must be applied when fixing noise problems. These are: 1. elimination of noise sources 2. substitution of quieter plant or processes or use of engineering measures 3. isolation of noise sources 4. administrative measures 5. hearing protectors It is worth noting that if noise can be controlled without relying on hearing protectors, then hearing tests do not have to be provided. Hearing tests must be provided where hearing protectors are required to make sure that employees exposure does not exceed the noise standard. Refer to Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2001 Code of Practice: Noise management and Protection of Hearing at work

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ENVIRONMENT
WOOD DUST
Timber dust poses a risk to the health and safety of employees within the wood products manufacturing industry. These dusts can be generated through cutting, thicknessing or machining of the timber materials during manufacturing of the product. These dusts can be inhaled and, in some instances, air embolisms can be generated when air is injected into the skin of the operator through the use of compressed air to blow down or clean the operator or clean machinery. Controls for this risk include: 1. 2. 3. 4. engineering the machinery to include dust extraction systems using localised extraction systems on the plant to a remote extraction system using hand tools that include a collection bag, e.g. sanders and cutting equipment outsourcing tasks where cutting or machining as required to specialist workplaces, or 5. using personal protective equipment such as class P1 dust respirators (disposable or silicone half face respirators). Housekeeping needs to be considered when eliminating the risk of dust exposure. Regular cleaning and maintenance needs to be undertaken. This cleaning should be completed with the use of wet wiping or vacuuming (vacuum fitted with high efficiency particulate air HEPA filter). This reduces the risk of the dust becoming airborne and being inhaled by the operators.

Slot extraction systems

Half face respirator with particulate filter

DANGEROUS GOODS AND HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

Many different forms of hazardous substances and dangerous goods are used in the wood products manufacturing industry, ranging from paints, resins and lacquers to solvents and thinners. During handling, storing and use of these materials, care should be taken to reduce exposure risks. The correct storage of these materials needs to be considered and appropriate cabinets installed in the workplace. During the mixing and use of these products, fume and vapours can be released and expose the operator to inhalation risks. Other risks to the operators are from skin contact, ingestion and contact with the eyes. Controls for these risks include: 1. engineering the machinery to include extraction systems including the spray booths where these tasks are being undertaken. These extraction systems should be designed and installed by suitably qualified people and regular maintained 2. using localised extraction systems on the plant to a remote extraction system 3. outsourcing spraying tasks to specialist workplaces, or 4. using personal protective equipment such as respirators (silicone half face or full face respirators fitted with vapour filters)

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ENVIRONMENT
Risks around spray painting of paints based with isocyanates pose a higher risk to operators. In these instances, higher levels of controls need to be undertaken by the employer, such as: 5. Installing a spray painting booth with extraction systems vented outside the building 6. Using localised extraction systems on the plant to a remote fumes and vapours 7 Outsourcing spraying tasks to specialist workplaces . 8. Using water-based paint alternatives 9. Using respiratory protective equipment such as air supplied respirators that are fed with air from compressors. These compressors should be suitable for the task. They should also be located in areas were they can draw fresh air and not located close to car parks or areas of high forklift traffic, or 10. Using personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, coveralls, safety footwear etc. to protect the skin and eyes. Refer to OHS Amendment (Dangerous Goods) Act 2003 and supporting OHS amendment (Dangerous Goods) Regulation 2003 and Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods Code of Practice OHS Regulation 2001 (chapter 6 and 7 Hazardous Substances and Hazardous Processes)

Half face or full face respirators with vapour/gas filter

LIGHTING
The quality of lighting in a workplace has a significant effect on safety and productivity. Good lighting in the workplace promotes: a reduced risk of injuries through better visibility a reduced risk of short and long term health problems such as headaches and eye strain and vision impairment loss a brighter, cleaner workplace resulting in a more active, cheerful environment. This may be achieved by: making full use of natural light by installing windows and skylights ensuring that overhead and fixed lighting is at appropriate levels and that there is an effective maintenance and replacement program in place using task lighting with a flexible arm to enable directing of light to the spot where the light is needed painting ceilings and walls a lighter colour allowing more light to be reflected and assisting in increasing the light within the workplace. Refer to Australian Standard 1680

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ENVIRONMENT
HOUSEKEEPING
Poor housekeeping can result in an increased risk of injury. By implementing a good housekeeping plan, areas are kept clean and free of waste. Items should be stored correctly with no parts protruding onto walkways. No electrical cords should be on the floors. Tools should have a designated area for storage such as shadow boards and bins for waste should be readily available.

PLANT LAYOUT
The affect of plant layout on a workplace not only can impact on production volumes but on health and safety. Employers should consider the following issues relating to plant layout: Poor housekeeping can increase risks of trips, falls and fires designated raw material and delivery areas raw materials stored in a easily accessible area, close to the start of the production area linear workflow through the production line clear areas of work traffic management and designated forklift and pedestrian segregation reduction of blind spots throughout the plant.

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Protective clothing and equipment is a common risk control for employees exposed to chemicals, fumes, vapours or dusts. However, it is not a good idea to rely on protective clothing and equipment to control risk as it may not properly protect all employees from risks and can create new risks and work problems. As far as reasonably practicable, controls other than the use of protective clothing and equipment should be used to manage risks arising from the use of chemicals, fumes, vapours or dusts. Clear walkways avoids trips and falls Personal protective clothing and equipment should be seen as a temporary measure or a last resort to be used only when other controls may not adequately control exposure, or are not reasonably practicable.

Risks of using protective clothing and equipment

Personal protective clothing and equipment is not a good risk control because it does not eliminate or reduce the risks and dangers may not be cost effective - often the long term monetary and employee time costs of using protective clothing and equipment are not taken into account. This includes the costs of: - selection - storage - cleaning - fitting - medical examinations required before use - purchase - replacement - maintenance - training employees in use and maintenance - monitoring of use and extra supervision

Stand with coiled air hose used to reduce clutter

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ENVIRONMENT
only provides limited protection will not protect employees if it is not properly selected, fitted, used, maintained and stored is often less effective if more than one type of personal protective clothing and equipment is used at the same time is not always used when it should because it: - interferes with doing the job - causes discomfort and/or pain - affects vision, e.g. safety goggles, full face respirators - interferes with hearing and talking e.g. hearing protection, respirators - is not used by some employees for health, physical and psychological reasons - is difficult to use correctly if not properly supervised, and - interferes with employee concentration. Protective clothing and equipment can increase manual handling risks by: increasing heat stress in hot work areas as this makes the work harder and increases tiredness and the risk of heat illness restricting postures and movements as this can make the job harder to do and increases the chances that protective clothing and equipment wont be properly used e.g. gloves can prevent getting a good grip on tools, components and materials - this puts more physical stress on hands, arms and shoulders using non-powered respirators that can make breathing harder, worsened if the filters need changing, making the job harder to do, and restricting movement and mobility if air-lines and air-hoses are used with air supplied respirators as this can make the job harder to do and creates tripping risks.

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SECTION TITLE

OTHER USEFUL GUIDANCE MATERIAL

Those involved in the wood and wood product manufacturing industry may also be interested in publications developed for other industries including: Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2001 Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods Code of Practice Guide for Bridge and Gantry Drivers Guide for Dogging Guide for Forklift Floors Passageways and Stairs Do I Have a Noise Problem Code of Practice Noise Management & Protection of Hearing at Work Work in Hot Environments Fact Sheet Work Safety Kit 2001 Principles of Machine Guarding Identification Tool for Metal Hazard Profile 2001 Manual Handling Risk Guide Machinery and Equipment Safety An introduction Please visit our website at www.workcover.nsw.gov.au or ask at a WorkCover NSW office for a copy of our disk, which has a complete list of all available publications.

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SECTION TITLE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

National Documentation Australian Standard AS 4024.1201 2006, Safety of Machinery Australian Standard AS 1473 1991, Guarding and safe use of woodworking machinery Australian Standard AS 1473.5 2001, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Moulding machines and routers with rotating tool Australian Standard AS 1473.7 2005, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Tenoning, profiling and edge-banding machines Australian Standard AS 1473.6 2005, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Surface planning and thicknessing machines Australian Standard AS 1473.1 2000, Wood processing machinery Primary timber milling machinery Australian Standard AS 1473.4 2001, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Bandsawing machines Australian Standard AS 1473.4 2001, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Circular sawing machines Australian Standard AS 1473.2 2001, Wood processing machinery Safety Finishing machinery Common requirements Australian Standard AS 1715 Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices Australian Standard AS 4114 Spray Painting Booth Australian Standard AS 1716 Respiratory protective devices

WorkCover NSW acknowledges WorkSafe Victoria and the many industry stakeholders who worked together in the development of this publication:
Australian Industry Group Australian Window Association Cabinet Makers Association Construction Forestry Mining and Energy Union Frame and Truss Manufacturers Association Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (Vic/Tas) Inc Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce & Industry Wood and Wood Products OHS Working Party Thanks also to all the workplaces who participated in the Wood and Wood Products Solutions Workshop in September 2006 who assisted in the development of this publication.

Workplaces and suppliers

AP Wines Pty Ltd Canterbury Windows Carjo Furniture Dahlsens Truss and Frame JFK Interiors Moran Furniture Stegbar Tudor Doors
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NOTES

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A GUIDE TO SAFETY IN THE WOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

WORKCOVER NSW
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