Wood is a natural material that has been used for centuries to build everything from homes and furniture to boats and bridges. Woodturning is the process of shaping wood into any number of different objects, but it’s important to know how safe this practice can be.
Woodturning is a fun hobby that can also become a business. There are many people who take up woodturning as an enjoyable way to make extra money, but is it dangerous? Woodturners use sharp and fast-moving tools to shape wood, so accidents are always possible.
This blog post will explore the safety risks associated with woodturning so you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is something you want to start learning.
Is Wood Turning Dangerous
Safety is a priority in any activity, but it’s especially important during woodturning. Wood can be dangerous to turn if you don’t have the right knowledge and safety equipment. The stakes are high — not only for your personal health and happiness but also for property damage that could cost thousands of dollars or more.
Turners use other machines, including a bandsaw, chain saw, grinder, sander, drill, and more. These machines may have rotary blades that can catch hair or clothing in them. They also may have points that can trap fingers (like between the grinding wheel and its tool rest).
So, is wood turning dangerous? The answer is yes but that does not mean you cannot enjoy it as a hobby or profession.
Read: Can You Teach Yourself Wood Turning?
What Are The Dangers Of Woodturning?
Woodturners use sharp and fast-moving tools to shape wood, so accidents are always possible. Some people may have a risk of injury due to the strenuous nature of work and repetitive motions used during turning. Injuries can also happen if you’re not using the right safety equipment like eye protection.
Woodturners can also face issues with dust inhalation, which is a major risk factor for woodworkers because of the high levels of particulate matter in sawdust or shavings. Breathing this type of air is linked to asthma-like symptoms such as wheezing and chest tightness, and it’s been found that woodworking activities significantly increase exposure to particles like silica sand (which is used when turning).
Woodturning can be dangerous. Lathed wood is extremely difficult to control because it may have splits or cracks in it that will cause something to go all over the place before you know what happened.
If the wood you are turning is not securely mounted, it can fly off and hit you. This can cause some serious bruising.
While woodturning, bark, and sapwood can fly off at you. Usually, this is not a problem; however, there’s always the chance of getting small cuts from these flying pieces.
Teaching yourself about these dangers ahead of time allows you to take the necessary precautions before starting work on any project. Knowing how dangerous your tools are will help you stay safe during woodturning while allowing you to enjoy all its benefits too!
How Can I Protect Myself From Woodturning Dangers?
- Keep a well-ventilated workspace
- Wear protective gear like masks and goggles to prevent getting any of the dangerous dust in your eyes or throat.
- Wash your hands after finishing woodturning work for at least 15 seconds to get rid of all the dirt particles on them. You don’t want these going near food or touching anything else in the house either!
- If you are going to be working with wood turnings for hours at a time, take regular breaks from the workstations when possible. You don’t want to get too tired or sore before taking a break – this can lead to accidents!
- When working with any type of machinery, long hair should be tied up and loose clothing tightened.
- Woodturning is hazardous because it requires constant attention. Always stay aware of where your hands are positioned and think about building a guard to protect yourself from sharp edges.
Also Read: Beginners Wood Lathe Speed Guide – Chart + Calculator
Items You Must Have To Start Woodturning Safely
- A woodturners apron with tight-fitting sleeves
- A full-face shield, not safety glasses
- A dust mask
- Hearing protection
- Tie back hair or loose clothing
- Remove all jewelry
- Don’t wear gloves
- Use safety guards if your lathe has them
Keep Your Turning Area Clean
Properly organizing your work area will help you to achieve success when turning wood. Stock-in-trade may start piling up at or around your lathe and it’s a good idea to make sure you can see and access what you need with just a glance.
One of the simplest ways to avoid accidents while woodturning is to maintain your tools. One way to help with this is by using a tool holder that will keep everything well-organized and in reach. Sometimes, though, all it takes is an incorrect reach for something like a lathe tool over a spinning surface in order to create disaster.
It is always a good idea to have stability and a safe place to stand when working with wood. A work mat on the floor will provide an easier time and will protect your joints.
In Conclusion, Is Wood Turning Dangerous?
Woodturning is a fun hobby that can also become a business. There are many people who take up woodturning as an enjoyable way to make extra money, but it’s important to know how safe this practice can be.
The tools used in the process of turning wood into specific objects come with risks of injury or accident. Safety precautions should always be taken when practicing woodworking techniques and methods.
If you’re interested in learning more about woodturning and what lathe is the best for a beginner or hobbyist you can read more on our blog.
We can help guide you towards success in both of these endeavors by providing helpful tips on how to work safely while still enjoying yourself.