Dust!!  Most of us know that dust in our shops is a major nuisance. But how many realize that excessive exposure to wood dust can cause health problems as well? Frequent exposure to large amounts of wood dust can lead to sinus and lung problems, or worse. The smallest dust particles are the most dangerous as they can enter the body and are difficult to remove. This stuff is dangerous!
Some wood dusts are toxic or carcinogenic. The United States Department of Labor OSHA website, has this to say about wood dust. “In general, exposure to excessive amounts is considered to have an irritant effect on eyes, nose and throat in addition to pulmonary function impairment and is considered a human carcinogen. Western red cedar dust has also been shown to cause asthma.” Now wait just a minute! I use this species on my guitars. Now I am paying attention!

Since my shop is in my home I had to find a way to control the dust. Happy Wife. Happy Life, right folks? So, about 10 years ago I did a lot of research about dust: how dangerous it is, ways to control it etc. I even wrote an article for American Lutherie magazine  (AL #116 P. 28) about the importance of dust control for woodworkers and luthiers. In my research I learned that Oneida Air Systems is the industry leader in dust control systems. I purchased their Dust Deputy Cyclone Separator  and  Dust Gorilla Pro at full price and am glad I did! I am now able to collect dust in my shop down to .1 micron. I am such a fan of Oneida's products that I invited them to be a sponsor at the Lutherie Academy.  
  
 


According to their website the Dust Deputy was going to transform the way I worked! Yeah right! The Dust Deputy Cyclone system is advertised to capture 99% of the dust before reaching my shop vac, which meant that it would not reach the shop vac’s filter clogging it within what usually seemed like a few minutes of operation. Finally someone understood my problem! In addition to the dust problem I had a shop vac problem! I often found myself reaching for the broom and dustpan instead of taking my chances that my shop vac would be functioning at full capacity. After adding the Dust Deputy it actually became a pleasure to use my vacuum again and did indeed transform the way I worked when it came to my shop vac.
I also have the Ondeia Benchtop Personal Dust Collector which allows me to collect dust when sanding and working at my bench. The Oneida products have changed the way I work and can do the same for you. 

Several years ago I made a video about 3 ways to control dust in your shop. I think you will find it useful and the information I present will literally save your life. Take dust seriously and solve your dust problem. 

Happy Building.