The major accident rate for woodworking is more than 17% above the manufacturing industry average. Like most industries, handling and slips and trips account for most injuries. However, woodworking has a very high number of accidents caused by contact with moving machinery. HSE is currently producing more detailed information on the types of machines involved and the causes of these accidents, such as unsafe work practices and lack of training, and this should be available later in the year.
| Cause of accident 2008-09 (provisional) | Percentage of total accidents |
|---|---|
| Handling – manual handling | 27% |
| Handling – other | 5% |
| Contact with moving machinery | 19% |
| Hit by moving or falling object | 17% |
| Slip or trip | 14% |
| Fall from height | 6% |
| Hit something fixed or stationary | 5% |
| Other | 5% |
Note: Note: As well as manual handling, the RIDDOR category of “Handling” includes trapped fingers and cuts from sharp or coarse material or equipment. In 2008-09 in woodworking, these accounted for nearly 20% of handling accidents and 5% of accidents overall.
Information sheets & Circular saw poster
Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ACOP)
DVD: Health and safety in the woodworking industry
BS EN’s for woodworking machines
Social media
Javascript is required to use HSE website social media functionality.
Follow HSE on Twitter:
Follow @H_S_E