Wood Dust Health Risks and WorkSafe NZ’s National Focus

Wood dust is a common and often underestimated health risk in New Zealand workplaces. Industries such as sawmilling, joinery, wood product manufacturing and timber processing routinely generate airborne wood dust through everyday activities like cutting, sanding, routing and machining. When this dust becomes airborne, it can be inhaled by workers and pose serious long-term health risks.

WorkSafe NZ has increased its focus on wood dust because inhalation is the primary route of exposure, and repeated exposure over time can lead to significant harm if not properly managed.

Why Inhalable Wood Dust Is a Health Risk

Inhalable wood dust particles are small enough to enter the nose and mouth and travel into the upper respiratory system. While some dust may be visible, much of the most harmful dust is not easily seen, meaning workers may be exposed without realising it.

Health effects linked to ongoing inhalation of wood dust include:

• Irritation of the nose, throat and lungs

• Occupational asthma

• Chronic respiratory conditions

• Increased risk of nasal cancer, particularly with certain hardwoods

Some engineered wood products also contain resins, glues or formaldehyde, which can increase health risks when dust is inhaled.

Why WorkSafe NZ Is Paying Closer Attention

WorkSafe NZ has identified wood dust as a priority health hazard because it is:

• Generated during routine tasks across many industries

• Often present at harmful levels without being obvious

• Linked to serious and preventable occupational disease

WorkSafe guidance makes it clear that businesses must not rely on assumptions or visual checks alone. Instead, they are expected to actively identify dust risks and take steps to eliminate or minimise exposure so far as is reasonably practicable.

Moving from Awareness to Action

Understanding that wood dust is a health risk is only the first step. WorkSafe’s focus is now firmly on how businesses are managing that risk in practice, including the effectiveness of controls and whether exposure is being properly assessed.

This is where exposure monitoring plays an important role.

How Verum Group Can Help

Understanding the health risks of wood dust is only the first step. Verum Group helps businesses measure and monitor inhalable dust exposure, giving clear insights into where risks exist and how to manage them effectively. Our independent monitoring and expert reporting support safer workplaces and proactive health management.

This evidence-based approach supports better health outcomes for workers and helps businesses meet WorkSafe expectations with confidence.