Section 45.12. Exhaust systems

(a) Exhaust system required. Except in sawmills, any establishment containing five or more machines whose operations are attended by the creation of dust, shavings, chips or slivers shall be equipped with an exhaust system, either continuous or automatic in action, of sufficient strength and capacity to enable it to thoroughly remove refuse from the points of operation and immediate vicinities of machines and work places.

(b) Hood requirements. Except in sawmills, any woodworking machine whose operations are attended by the creation of dust, shavings, chips, slivers, and the like, shall be equipped with an exhaust hood or hoods located and adjusted so as to remove the maximum amount of refuse material from the point of operation and immediate vicinity. Multiple boring or multiple mortising machines need not be equipped with hoods. Where a hood is used to form part or all of the guard required on a given machine, it shall be of sufficient material and construction so as to meet fully all the demands of such dual capacity.

(c) Exhaust pipes. All exhaust pipes shall be of a construction and internal dimension as to minimize the possibility of clogging. They shall be readily accessible for cleaning.

(d) Separations. All exhaust pipes shall empty into settling or dust chambers which shall effectively prevent the escape of dust and refuse from reentering the workroom. Such settling or dust chambers shall be of fireproof construction and shall be so designed and operated so as to minimize the danger of dust explosions.