Dust is a persistent challenge in woodworking shops, and the group’s recent discussions revealed just how creative shop owners have become in tackling this issue. One participant shared that a recent fire inspection flagged their shop for using compressed air to blow dust off CNC tables. The alternative—vacuuming—proved too slow.
A helpful solution came from another member, who recommended installing a dust wall behind the CNC table. “It captures airborne particles before they spread. It’s made a world of difference,” they shared.
Another member suggested upgrading tooling with better dust extraction features: “Some CNC push bars can be retrofitted to pull dust directly into the shroud. It’s an upfront cost, but the savings on cleanup time and health risks are worth it.”
While the Ministry of Labour’s standards might feel stringent at times, the group agreed that prioritizing clean air is non-negotiable. A shop owner summed it up best: “Dust is more than a nuisance; it’s a safety issue. Investing in solutions now saves headaches later.”
