Beneath its innocuous appearance, pressure-treated wood splinter conceals a subtle danger. As the chemical composition, particularly chromated copper arsenate, breaks down, it emits minute quantities of treated substances into the environment, posing a health hazard. The splintered material can become airborne, wafting as dust and triggering discomfort in the nose, eyes, and skin.
To mitigate exposure, gloves are indispensable, serving as a protective barrier not only for hands but also for shielding users from excessive residue of the preservative chemicals.
What Are the Worst Chemical Compounds Found in Pressure Treated Wood Splinters?
Pressure treated wood splinters can be a real concern when it comes to your health. Although these woods are treated to resist rot, decay, and termite damage, they can still pose unintended risks to humans. The chemicals used in the treatment process can leach out of the wood over time, potentially causing harm.
The Culprits: Common Chemical Compounds Found in Pressure Treated Wood Splinters
- Pentachlorophenol (PCP): A known human carcinogen and neurotoxin, PCP was once widely used in pressure treatment. Although its use has decreased, it’s still present in some older wood products.
- Copper azole (CA): A more recent treatment, CA is a known neurotoxin and has been linked to skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory problems.
- Ammoniacal copper zinc arsenate (ACZA): This preservative contains arsenic, a known human carcinogen.
- Borate-based preservatives: Although generally considered safe, borate-based preservatives can still irritate skin and eyes.
What’s the Risk?
When you get a pressure treated wood splinter, there’s a potential risk of exposure to these chemicals. If the splinter becomes embedded in your skin, bacteria can quickly multiply, exacerbating the situation. In rare cases, this can lead to infection, inflammation, or even organ damage.
It’s essential to remove the splinter as soon as possible and clean the area thoroughly. If you experience any symptoms, consult a medical professional for proper treatment.
What Are the Most Common Areas Where Pressure Treated Wood Splinters Tend to Form?
Pressure treated wood can be a wonderful material for outdoor projects, but it can also develop splinters over time. These splinters often form in specific areas, making it important to identify them early on.
- Cut ends : The cut ends of pressure treated wood are prone to splintering, especially if they’re exposed to moisture. This is because the treated chemicals can react with the wood fibers, causing them to dry out and crack.
- End grain : The end grain of pressure treated wood, where the wood fibers are exposed, can also develop splinters. This is because the treated chemicals can seep into the tiny pores of the wood, causing them to dry out and crack.
- Notches and grooves : Notches and grooves in pressure treated wood can also become splintered over time. This is because the treated chemicals can collect in these areas, causing the wood to dry out and crack.
- Screw holes : Screw holes in pressure treated wood can also develop splinters, especially if the screws are over-tightened. This is because the treated chemicals can react with the metal screws, causing them to expand and contract with the wood.
- Weathered areas : Pressure treated wood that’s been exposed to the elements for a long time can develop splinters in weathered areas, such as the ends of boards or areas where the wood has been damaged by insects.
What Makes Treated Wood Splinter?
Treated wood is a common material used for decks, fences, and play structures. But have you ever noticed how it tends to splinter easily? There are several reasons why treated wood splinters, and it’s not just because it’s “old” or “low quality”.
Chemical Treatment
One reason treated wood splinters is because of the chemicals used to preserve it. Wood preservatives, such as copper azole and chromatated copper arsenate, are applied to the wood to prevent rot and insect damage. These chemicals can soften the wood, making it more prone to splintering.
Resin and Pitch
Another factor is the resin and pitch that’s naturally present in the wood. As the wood ages, these substances can become concentrated, causing the wood to become brittle and more likely to splinter.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors like temperature and humidity can also contribute to splintering. When wood is exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity levels, the wood fibers can become damaged, leading to splintering.
Physical Forces
Physical forces like stress, impact, or wear and tear can cause treated wood to splinter. This can happen when the wood is subjected to repeated use or wear, causing the fibers to weaken and eventually break.
Tips for Minimizing Splintering
- Regularly inspect and maintain your treated wood structures
- Use a sealant to protect the wood from environmental factors
- Avoid using excessive force or pressure on the wood
- Consider using a wood stabilizer to reduce splintering
How Do Pressure Treated Wood Chemicals Affect My Skin and Lungs If I Get Splintered?
If you’ve ever worked with pressure treated wood, you might have wondered about the safety of your skin and lungs when exposed to splinters. The truth is, the chemicals used to treat wood can have adverse effects if you’re exposed to them.
What’s in Pressure Treated Wood?
Pressure treated wood is typically made with a family of chemicals called arsenic, chromium, and copper. These chemicals help protect the wood from rot, decay, and termite damage. However, they can also cause health issues if you come into contact with them.
Skin Exposure
If you get splintered with pressure treated wood, it’s essential to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible. This can help remove any chemicals from your skin. If the splinter is deep or sensitive, it’s best to seek medical attention. In extreme cases, exposure to these chemicals can cause skin irritation, rashes, or even allergic reactions.
Lung Exposure
If you inhale the sawdust or particles from pressure treated wood, it’s possible to damage your lungs over time. Chronic exposure can lead to conditions like pneumonia, bronchitis, or even cancer. This is especially concerning for people who work with pressure treated wood regularly, such as carpenters or construction workers.
How to Stay Safe
To minimize the risk of exposure, it’s critical to follow proper safety protocols when working with pressure treated wood:
- Wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, and a dust mask
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose when working with the wood
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pressure treated wood
- Consider using alternative materials if possible
