Workers in the wood and timber industry may be subject to a large number of occupational health risks, resulting from toxic chemical exposure to wood treatments, including solvents, preservatives, and adhesives. Physical injuries from work hazards, dangerous machinery and noise and vibration are also common in the wood industry, making it one of the most dangerous in the United States.

Formaldehyde exposure has had devastating effects on workers in the wood industry, and is known to cause some forms of cancer after chronic exposure at the workplace. The National Toxicology Program (NTP) classifies formaldehyde as “known to be a human carcinogen.”

Studies of wood industry employees exposed to formaldehyde in the workplace have reported a link between formaldehyde exposure and cancer. These studies primarily observed workers in occupational settings that use formaldehyde resins and solvents.

Joe Lyon is a highly-rated wood worker injury lawyer representing plaintiffs nationwide in a wide variety of civil litigation and workplace injury claims.  

Formaldehyde Exposure Risks in Woodworking

Chronic occupational exposure to formaldehyde presents serious risk. Studies have found that woodworkers and other professionals that use formaldehyde have an increased risk of leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

One study found that workers exposed to formaldehyde had elevated levels of chromosome changes in early white blood cells, supporting the association between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia. National Cancer Institute researchers have also warned that exposure to formaldehyde may cause acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

When formaldehyde or other airborne toxins are present in a wood shop, exposed workers may have adverse reactions and negative health effects that may include the following:

•    Burning sensations of the eyes, nose, and throat
•    Coughing
•    Wheezing
•    Nausea
•    Skin irritation and reactions

Working with Toxic Wood Materials & Chemical Hazards

Some finishes and coatings used in finishing processes contain chemicals that can affect the central nervous system, causing headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Health hazards can cause both acute and chronic health effects.

Toxins may harm the body in three ways: through inhalation, ingestion, or by direct skin contact. After any such injury, contact a medical professional and wood worker injury lawyer.

A worker’s skin may absorb many chemicals like solvents, and they may enter the bloodstream. Aside from formaldehyde, a wide range of other adhesives solvents and coating agents used to finish wood products are hazardous to the health of wood workers, including the following:

•    Lacquers—nitrocellulose topcoats
•    Varnishes—acid-catalyzed coatings
•    Turpentine
•    Toluene
•    Xylenes
•    Epoxy resin
•    Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK)
•    Methanol