When you work on projects in and around your home, you need a few essential items and tools on hand so that you’ll be ready for a DIY task whenever the need arises. Whether you have a workshop dedicated to storage for tools and space for projects or your equipment has been relegated to a small toolbox in the corner of your garage, there are some non-negotiable items that every woodworker should have on hand. Being prepared with the right tools can give you the freedom to tackle a project effectively, and it’s important that you keep yourself safe while you work.

Being aware of some of the dangers associated with woodworking and the precautions that you can take to protect yourself can help you stay healthy and safe. Here’s a closer look at some of the risks faced by those who tackle woodworking projects:

Sensitivity: One of the main concerns regarding the circulation of dust that is associated with woodworking is sensitization to exposure. It is easy to remember to prevent exposure when you have a reaction to woodworking dust, but it might not seem necessary if you don’t see any apparent consequences.
Irritation: Oftentimes, being exposed to wood dust can cause mild to moderate reactions and irritation, including rash, coughing, itching and wheezing.
Long-term risks: Several types of cancer have been linked to exposure to certain types of wood materials, and these issues can go unnoticed for decades. Your exposure to wood toxins can affect you well into the future.
Respiratory damage: The fine dust that is created during the woodworking process can cause a number of complications for your respiratory health.

Fortunately, there are some tools and other pieces of equipment that DIY-ers can invest in to protect themselves against injury and illness. Any of these can be found at a lumber store in Houston:

Breathing apparatuses: Every woodworker, regardless of experience, should always be equipped with some form of breathing protection if they are going to be completing a project. Depending on the amount of woodworking that you do and your level of exposure, you can choose something as basic as a dust mask from a hardware store or a powered respirator that filters and pumps air into your mask.
Cleaning equipment: If you work with wood often, you might want to invest in a specialized wood dust vacuum. Cleaning your shop or workspace often can minimize your exposure to woodworking dust and debris.
Specialized tools: For serious woodworkers, you can purchase sanding and shaping tables that are specially equipped with an attached vacuum or dust collector. The table has openings where dust and debris are continuously sucked in while you are woodworking.

Always make sure that you are aware of the safety concerns associated with woodworking and be prepared with the safety equipment you need to protect your health and wellbeing. If you have any questions about how to protect yourself from harm when working with lumber products, you can reach out to the professionals at Houston Hardwoods Inc. We are a lumber store in Houston that is proud to be an experienced and knowledgeable provider of wood products and services. No matter what kind of project you are working on, we would be glad to work with you to ensure that you enjoy the best outcome possible. Stop by today and get to know our team.