Is wood dust exposure covered under COSHH regulations?

Yes — wood dust is fully covered under COSHH regulations. In fact, it’s one of the more strictly controlled substances because hardwood dust is classed as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure can increase cancer risk. Softwood dust isn’t classified the same way, but it can still trigger asthma, breathing problems, and skin irritation.

Because of these risks, employers must assess exposure, put proper controls in place, and carry out monitoring where necessary. Any workplace that cuts, sands or shapes wood — from large sawmills to small joinery shops — has to show that exposure is kept below the legal limits.

It’s not something that companies can “opt out” of, even if the work looks clean or low dust. COSHH applies the moment wood is mechanically processed.