The dangers of a carpentry career
More than 1.2 million Americans are carpenters in 2002. Because carpenters are very involved in laborious and manual tasks, it is inevitable that carpenters will be injured in the performance of their duties. A career in carpentry is one of the most dangerous jobs.
Carpentry work is not only physically demanding, it is also emotionally and mentally demanding. Physical demands include sitting, standing, walking, climbing, crawling, bending, carrying and lifting heavy equipment without limitations or aids to perform activities.
Carpentry is not only a physical challenge, but it also requires the ability to learn, memorize and integrate rules, policies or practices that guide the performance of an activity. It also requires the ability to communicate verbally, especially with supervisors, colleagues and students, to gather information and / or explain procedures.
Carpentry also requires the ability to record very limited information such as telephone messages or other short annotations using either handwritten or mechanical means. The ability to hear and understand speech on a limited basis using amplification equipment and a hearing aid is also necessary.
Due to the use of power tools and non-motorized tools, carpenters can be electrocuted, struck by drills, knives and other broken equipment that can lead to serious injury to the eyes, head and face, as well as cuts and injuries. lacerations.
They also frequently work at height, which may include a mobile installation, including a mobile platform. Falls from height are possibilities that can result in death or serious injury.
Carpenters are also regularly exposed to dangerous substances such as wood dust, asbestos, medium density incandescent particle board (MDF). Short-term exposure to these substances can lead to respiratory complications. Although long-term exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, including asbestosis.
To avoid this, it is important to evaluate the work area and identify asbestos-containing materials before starting work. It is also important to provide a Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) so that carpenters and other employees know which hazardous materials they should handle and take the necessary precautions.
It is also important to provide dust bags for hand tools and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect against dust and chemical vapors. It is also important to follow the safety procedures and work instructions written on the MSDS.
Meanwhile, all physical work and manual manipulations, such as bending, reaching, pulling, stretching, standing up, repetitive movements and uncomfortable posture can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These disorders affect the muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves.
Health problems can range from discomfort, minor pain to more serious medical conditions requiring free time, or even medical treatment. There may even be chronic cases that can lead to permanent disability. To avoid MSDs, it is necessary to provide training in safe manual handling techniques, to provide mechanical aids, to lift teams, and to exercise before the shift or workday.
Noise exposure is also something that can not be avoided. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can cause hearing loss. It is important to use the appropriate PPE to limit excessive noise exposure.
Carpenters are also frequently exposed to the sun, rain and other climate changes. They can be exposed to heat. Exposure to hot weather can cause rashes, heat cramps, heat stress, dehydration and sunburn. It is important to have regular breaks so you have time to avoid the sun. Meanwhile, in extreme weather conditions such as intense heat, it is best to reprogram the work. A high consumption of water and liquids is a great way to avoid dehydration. Also, dress appropriately to avoid rashes and sunburns.
