Thread: Question regarding toxic woods list

Here's one of the allergy lists
Wood Allergies and Toxicity | The Wood Database
I think every wood that exists is on there for something.

I've been doing wood working for over 30 years and have never had any serious problems. There was one exotic that gave me a mild rash on my hands once, but that is it. A dust mask is all I usually use and I make sure I wash my hands and arms with soap afterwards.

Originally Posted by criswilson10

Here's one of the allergy lists
Wood Allergies and Toxicity | The Wood Database
I think every wood that exists is on there for something.

I've been doing wood working for over 30 years and have never had any serious problems. There was one exotic that gave me a mild rash on my hands once, but that is it. A dust mask is all I usually use and I make sure I wash my hands and arms with soap afterwards.

I worked with cocobolo for around 20 yrs off and on no problems till this past year on a pair of razor scales. when I got up the morning afterwards I thought I was blind both eyes swelled shut and burning like you have never dreamt of. luckily for me the dr. had seen it before but it took a week for me to be able to stand any bright lights. I gave what I had away and wont use it for the custom knives I make either. I have had several requests but I cannot take the chance again. it is off my list as a handle material. I wore goggles and a respirator, dr. says the oil still came through the vents in the goggles and the pores in my skin.

I think if you were worried, just move on to a different wood. There are hundreds to choose from and some look similar so finding another one you like should be easy. As far as toxicity, you never know what or when it might set you off. When I was 17 I worked in a mill making Cedar shakes and never had a problem, a few years ago I was shingling a shed and it made me itch so bad I couldn't stand it so you never know. If you do make it out of a wood that has been questioned, just do as others have said and make sure you seal in...good luck

One thing to be aware of,As we age our Immune systems degrade,I never had any issues with any woods untill about 5yrs ago.
Cocobolo today causes major irritations.

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

One thing to be aware of,As we age our Immune systems degrade,I never had any issues with any woods untill about 5yrs ago.
Cocobolo today causes major irritations.

Excellent point. And another point is that your body progressively gets annoyed at allergens. Things that only mildly irritate can trigger a massive response if you keep at it long enough.