A carpenter builds or repairs various structures, working primarily with wood. Some of a carpenter's main duties are to:
duty Move, measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials.
duty Read, prepare and interpret blueprints and drawings.
duty Prepare cost estimates and documentation for clients.
duty Conform to building codes and other regulations.
duty Use, clean and maintain various equipment and tools.
duty Supervise apprentices or other workers.
Carpenters face their own unique set of occupational hazards. These include the following:
Additional hazards may be present due to the nature of the worksite. Always be aware of your surroundings.
safety Use of various machinery and tools.
physical Exposure to loud noise from machinery and tools.
biological Moulds, fungi and bacteria.
chemical Chemicals, solvents, paints, stains, and other materials which may result in dermatitis, allergic reactions, or respiratory problems.
chemical Cancer risk from certain wood dusts.
chemical Flammable materials, including wood dust. Combustible dust may also be a concern.
ergonomic Risk of pain or injury from working in awkward positions, performing repetitive tasks, or
lifting.
safety Risk of cuts, abrasions, and other injuries from handling workpieces and using tools or equipment.
safety Risk of entanglement of body parts into rotating parts or machinery.
physical Extreme temperatures when working outdoors.
safety Risk of eye injury from flying particles.
safety Working at heights.
psychosocial Stress.
psychosocial Shift work or extended work days.
psychosocial Working alone.
administrative Inspect work area, tools, and equipment before work starts for possible hazards.
administrative Select tools and equipment that allow work to be done using good ergonomic procedures.. When there is a choice, select a tool of low weight.
requirement Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
requirement Know when to replace accessories on woodworking machines.
administrative Clean up wood dust regularly and maintain good housekeeping practices.
requirement Keep work areas clear of clutter and equipment.
administrative Disconnect the power to any machine when you have to fix an issue or change parts. Use lock-out/tag out procedures and/or maintain control of the power while working on the machine to prevent accidental start-up.
engineering Never operate machinery without all guards in place.
ppe Wear appropriate eye protection, hearing protection, footwear, and other protective equipment for the task.
requirement Know about the products you are working with, including type of wood, chemicals, paints, stains, etc.
requirement Learn safe lifting techniques.
requirement Avoid awkward postures or repetitive tasks, or take frequent breaks.
requirement Be sure to stand in the correct position - always allow for kick back.
requirement Never use your hands to run lumber through the blade or to clean off sawdust. Use a push stick and a brush.
requirement Do not wear loose clothing around rotating parts or machinery.
requirement Follow a recommended shift work pattern, and know the associated hazards.
engineering Install and maintain appropriate ventilation.
requirement Woodworking machines
requirement Hand tools
requirement Powered hand tools
requirement Work safely with all equipment:
requirement Electrical safety
requirement Working at heights and fall protection
requirement Working with ladders
requirement Fire safety
administrative Follow correct procedures for:
ppe Use, maintain and store personal protective equipment as recommended by the manufacturer.
requirement Follow safe lifting techniques.
requirement Follow company safety rules.
administrative Know first aid procedures.
requirement Learn about chemical hazards, WHMIS and MSDSs.
administrative Know how to report a hazard.
administrative Follow good housekeeping procedures.