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Health Hazards > Diesel Exhaust

Diesel exhaust is a combination mixture of gases, vapors and liquid aerosols. The main component of chain saw exhaust emissions are hydrocarbons. Breathing in these diesel fumes can cause adverse health effects.

> Work Areas
> Health Hazards
> Vibration
> Wood Dust
> Cobalt Dust
> UV Radiation
> Tick-borne Illnesses
> Noise and Hearing Loss
>> Diesel Exhaust
> Poisonous Plants
> Chemicals
> Cold Stresses
> Heat Stresses
> Miscellaneous Log and Lumber Processing
> Traffic Flow/Control
> Electrical
> Lockout/Tagout

Short-term Effects Top
  • Irritation of eyes, nose and throat

  • Dizziness (lightheadedness)

  • Nausea (feeling sick to stomach)

  • Wheezing

  • Headache

  • Drowsiness (feeling sleepy)
Top


Long-term (Chronic) Effects Top
  • Increased susceptibility to bacterial or viral respiratory infections

  • Asthma

  • Persistent cough

  • Lung cancer

  • Lack of coordination

  • Blood disorders
Top


Possible Solutions/Controls Top
  • Inspect and maintain saws and power equipment routinely.

  • Turn off engines when not in use. Discourage idling of equipment.

  • Rotate jobs.

  • Use emission control devices such as collection, scrubbers, or ceramic particle traps.

  • Replace diesel engines with propane-burning engines when possible. Propane burns more completely and more cleanly than diesel fuel.

  • Provide suitable gloves for workers who handle hot and cold diesel fuel.

  • Encourage workers to wash hands and face before eating or drinking.

  • Wear long shirts and pants to prevent skin contact with fuel oil.
Top

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