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 		Plant-Wide Hazards
  >> Plant-Wide Hazards
 
Health Hazards > Diesel Engine 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
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>> 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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