Wood Toxicity & Human Response Marian McGee June 14, 2011 Valley Woodturners

Key Concepts Structural Components Accessory Components Bioresponse Protection & Control

Structural Components Cellulose –used for paper production –long, string like molecule –high tensile strength Hemicellulose –less complex branch –likes to link lignin and cellulose Lignin –most complex –responsible for the strength and rigidity of the substance –classifiable Hardwoods Softwoods grasses

Accessory Substances/Extractives Fats, resins, oils, waxes Proteins, gums, latex, mucus, starch & sugars Alkaloids, dyes, tannins, glycosides camphor, perfumes Inorganic and organic salts and acids Minerals (e.g. calcium, potassium, sodium, etc.)

Quinones Chemicals in the wood’s lignin, hemicellulose and cellulose –designed as a defense against fungus and other predators (including woodturners) –particular to a species and probably to related species

Bioresponse Skin/dermis Respiratory system Cardiovascular system Neurological system Endocrine system

Signs of Toxicity anginaanxiety backachebad breath circulatory problemsconstipation coughingdizziness depressioneye irritation fatiguefrequent colds feverheadaches hivesindigestion itchy noseinsomnia mood changesrashes sinus congestionsore throat wheezing

Allergic Reaction Phase 1 –penetrates the white blood cells in the epidermis –travels to lymph nodes where T cells may or may not recognize the “invader”

Bioresponse Phase Reaction –the T cells release a protein which will attract white blood cells to fight and destroy everything close by –(including skin cells – rash & blisters) –may also manifest redness – (vasodilation) & itching (neurological response) –Anaphylaxis – rapid physical ‘shutdown’ and ****!!!!! –initially undetected physical response****!!!!

Outcomes/Consequences Possible: –headaches –bronchitis, rhinitis –sinusitis –dermatitis –cancers –nasal, –throat, –lungs, –skin, –endocrine

Critical Equation!!! Element (s) of the wood + Dosage (i.e. the length of exposure & the number of undesirable molecules) + Strength/Power (of the wood molecules) + Vulnerability (of the person) = Your Level of Risk

Protection & Control Understand the profile of your wood – its growth site, potency Learn your personal vulnerabilities/sensitivities – skin, respiratory, gastro intestinal, eyes, etc. Take appropriate protective action e.g. –Full respiratory protection & dust control –Hand washing and well fitted gloves –Workshop clothes and face shield

References Woods Toxic to Man – author unknown Vancouver Woodturners Guild Meir, Eric – Wood Allergies and Toxicity BMEzine Encyclopaedia – Wood Hazards Wood Toxicity Table – Toxic Woods Information Sheet #30