Q.   What do I need to do when working with treated timber?

A.   Point-of-sale brochures should be available at reputable timber sale yards and these set down some simple safety precautions, which should always be followed. If you cannot find such a brochure the TPAA will send you one on request. 

Standard safety equipment should be used whenever working with wood — treated or untreated. Gloves should be worn to help avoid splinters. A dust or filter mask should be worn for protection against inhalation of airborne wood dust when sawing, machining or sanding, and cuts and abrasions protected from sawdust. Goggles should be worn when sanding, and during sawing or machining if there is any risk to the eyes from flying particles. If possible, sanding should be performed in a well-ventilated area.

The hands and face should be washed free of sawdust before eating or smoking, and food and drink should never be left where sawdust can settle.

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