Tool-related injuries among amateur and professional woodworkers

Although woodworking is a popular hobby and the woodworking industry employs thousands of workers nationwide, few studies have examined injuries associated with this activity, especially in relation to woodshop tool use. We conducted a survey of amateur and professional woodworkers (n = 283) in New Mexico to determine histories and rates of tool-specific injuries. Injuries associated with woodshop tool use were reported by 64% of all respondents. Hammers, chisels/gouges, and table saws were most frequently reported in association with injuries, although the highest tool-specific injury rates were associated with use of jointer-planers (4.9 injuries per 1000 person-hours of use), chisels/gouges (3.3 injuries), and drill presses (3.1 injuries). One third reported tool use-associated injuries that were severe enough to require professional medical attention; 5% of all respondents suffered partial amputations. Courses in the safe use of shop tools may help to reduce rates of injuries among woodworkers.