Battling Shop Dust

by Robbie O’Brien

Originally published in American Lutherie #116, 2013



As luthiers we are all aware of the many health hazards and dangers we encounter daily in our craft. Sharp objects, hand tools, power tools, and chemicals from finish and repair work come to mind almost immediately. Many of us also play the instruments we make, so just the thought of losing a finger and not being able to play anymore motivates our safety habits. However, we often overlook a pervasive danger in the shop, wood dust. Even in cases when we are aware of the danger, we may do little or nothing about it. We protect our fingers, eyes, and ears in the shop, but what about our noses and lungs? Most of us know that dust in our shops is a major nuisance. But how many realize that excessive exposure to wood dust can cause health problems?

The health hazards of wood dust are well documented. Some wood dusts are toxic, even carcinogenic, and frequent exposure can lead to sinus and lung problems, or worse. The U.S. Department of Labor OSHA website warns: “In general, exposure to excessive amounts is considered to have an irritant effect on eyes, nose, and throat in addition to pulmonary function impairment and is considered a human carcinogen. Western red cedar dust has also been shown to cause asthma.”¹ Now wait just a minute! I use this species on my guitars. Now you have my attention!