MDF Sawdust

[lankeela]

Someone I know has had some dogs die in a kennel where they had used mdf sawdust on the floor. They are claiming it is toxic, and was supplied in error by the woodyard.

Question is, can anyone verify that this is possible, and if so, how comes the workers don't get affected. Surely there would be a Health and Safety issue?

[jocky]

MDF sawdust is indeed toxic. People working with it should be wearing dust masks unless there is good extraction.

[lankeela]

In that case, do you think it would be readily available to the public or would it have to be kept in a controlled environment and disposed of in an approved way?

[gumboot]

With the best will in the world lankeela, H&S issues like this are not always perfect.

Despite the H&S regulations we're expected to use common sense too. The H&S can't protect us from everything.

As an example, the sulphuric acid in in my car battery is pretty hazardous, but there's not much said about what I can or can't do with it.

In the plants where they process this MDF, masks etc are compulsory. All the DIY programs I've seen mention the need to wear masks when cutting it. MDF boards also have labels warning about dust dangers.

The advice is there - we just need to follow it. I can't see the problem.

[Hawkwalk]

MDF Sawdust contains formaldehyde which is toxic when breathed in. It would probably not affect the workers who would be putting it on the floor but dogs are likely to be sniffing it.

[xxyyabikes]

M D F,when wet,is carcenagenic,which is why it has been banned in some american states for use as a building material,I believe !