How can western red cedar asthma be prevented?
The first step in preventing western red cedar asthma is hazard assessment. Managers should identify the areas in the facility that produce the greatest amount of dust. Next, steps should be taken to reduce the levels of wood dust as much as possible. Following is a prioritized list of possible ways to reduce wood dust exposures those listed first are the most effective: Engineering Solutions Provide controls to reduce the level of dust that reaches the workers. Examples include: Enclose machines and/or specific operations with a ventilation system to isolate workers from the wood dust. Install local exhaust ventilation to remove dust before it enters the work environment. Consider the feasibility of using wet-work methods to reduce airborne dust. Administrative Controls Encourage and enforce safe work practices. Examples include: Train workers on the hazards of western red cedar dust and ways to minimize exposures. Provide washing facilities and changing areas to decrease take-home ex
