Which term best describes the material that should be controlled to protect worker health in woodworking?

• A. Noise
• B. Moisture
• C. Dust
• D. Vibration

Answer: (C)

Airborne wood dust is the health hazard in woodworking, so it’s the material you want to control. When you cut, sand, or route wood, tiny particles are released into the air and can be inhaled, irritate the lungs and airways, worsen asthma, and, with certain woods, increase cancer risk. That’s why reducing dust exposure is a primary health safeguard—use effective dust collection and local ventilation, clean up regularly, and wear a respirator if needed. The other factors—noise, moisture, and vibration—affect different safety areas (hearing protection, moisture-related issues, and hand‑arm vibration), but the health risk most directly addressed by controlling a material in the air is wood dust.