MDF FAQ’s new from the HSE

BWF has been asked on several occasions about the machining of Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) and  potential dust related issues. and what additional health and safety measures, if any, should be taken to protect employees.

MDF, an engineered wood-based sheet material made by bonding together wood fibres with a synthetic resin adhesive, is extremely versatile and can be machined and finished to a high standard.  As a result, MDF has been found to be a low-cost alternative solid timber in a wide range of applications across industry.

HSE published a  MDF "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQ's) page on its website.. These include explanations of what MDF and formaldehyde are, the dangers of MDF compared with other wood based materials and the precautions you should take when using MDF.

Members should also be aware that following the EU decision to reclassify Formaldehyde as a type 1B carcinogen from 1 April 2015, CEI BOIS have produced a document which highlights technical details of potential changes to the use of formaldehyde this might mean in the future.

Should members have any questions on this topic, please call Michael Lee at the BWF or email on Michael.lee@bwf.org.uk