Delphi assessment of the management of risk factors for exposure to wood dust generated in the handling of wood or wood composite materials in work activities in Spain

Abstract

In the European Union, cancer is the leading cause of death from exposure to carcinogens in working environments. One of these is wood dust, which in the particular case of Spain is one of the four main carcinogens that workers are most frequently exposed to. In addition, it should be noted that there is still little knowledge about the risk factors associated with this exposure. Therefore, this research provides valuable information on how risk factors are current managed to minimise the risk of exposure to wood dust in occupational activities carried out in Spain that involve the handling or processing of wood. This is achieved through the expert consensus reached through the Delphi methodology. In general, the appropriate measures are not taken in wood handling processes to manage the risk factors related to exposure to wood dust. This means that workers are at high risk. This situation is worsened by the fact that workers are hardly ever aware of the risks of exposure to wood dust. Therefore, the following preventive measures are proposed: the use of instruments for measuring and warning of dust levels in the air; investment in systems for evacuation and storage of wood dust; daily cleaning of floors, walls and other surfaces by vacuuming using HEPA air filters; redesign of production processes and investment in new technologies to reduce occupational exposure; improving staff organisation measures to reduce as far as possible the number of workers exposed or likely to be exposed; conducting risk assessments when there are changes in technology, equipment or working conditions.