LOSP Treated Timber
Process, Uses and Health and Safety Implications.
LOSP treated timber is specially treated with a white spirits-based preservative containing fungicides and insecticides, enhancing its durability and resistance to decay without altering its dimensions.
Why Treat Timber?
Treating timber is essential to extend its lifespan, allowing it to withstand environmental elements, decay, and insect damage.
By doing so, we not only protect our wood products but also contribute to the conservation of our forest resources by reducing the need for frequent harvesting.
LOSP Treated Wood
What is LOSP Treatment?
LOSP (Light Organic Solvent Preservative) treatment is a specialised process that enhances the durability of timber and wood products. It involves impregnating the wood with a preservative using controlled vacuum processes.
LOSP contains combinations of fungicides and insecticides, making them effective for timbers used in both internal and external applications. As a white spirits-based preservative, LOSP treats timber without causing it to swell or change dimensions, making it ideal for timber products that are already shaped and ready for use in construction or finishing projects.
What can LOSP treated wood be used for?
LOSP treated timber is a versatile material used across various applications, particularly in high-value building components. Its durability makes it an excellent choice for elements, such as exterior cladding, fascia and trim where durability is paramount.
Weatherboards, door and window joinery, panelling, and sills, all of which benefit from LOSP's ability to preserve the timber's dimensions while providing protection against decay and insect damage.
Health, Safety, and Environmental Considerations
Proper handling and storage of LOSP treated timber is crucial to ensuring safety and maintaining the integrity of the treatment. The information below is designed to inform treaters, merchants, and builders of the correct procedures for handling and storing LOSP treated timber, helping to minimise risks associated with the treatment process and use:
Avoid Confined Spaces
Do not work with LOSP treated timber in confined spaces to avoid exposure to fumes.
Protective Gear
Always wear protective glasses and a filter mask when sawing, sanding, or machining LOSP treated timber. Gloves and long sleeves are recommended to prevent splinters and cuts. For treatment plant operators handling damp timber, use solvent-resistant gloves and an impervious work apron. Applying a chemical resistant barrier cream to exposed skin, particularly wrists and forearms, is also advised.
Hygiene
Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling LOSP treated timber, especially before eating. If LOSP preservative or treated sawdust accumulates on your clothes, wash them separately from other household laundry before reuse.
Storage
LOSP treated timber should be stored in a well-ventilated area, and any wrapping on the timber when it arrives on-site or in-store should be removed promptly to help dissipate any solvent fumes. It should not be kept in confined spaces and is best stored in areas with double ventilated openings or an extraction system.
Flash Off Times
Freshly LOSP treated timber should be left unwrapped in fillet for four days to allow solvents to dissipate fully before it is transported off-site, ensuring adequate flash off time.
Transportation
Transportation: Transport LOSP treated timber in properly ventilated vehicles, as freshly treated timber may retain some solvent from the treatment process, which can pose health risks if not adequately ventilated.
Disposal
Never burn LOSP treated wood in open fires, stoves, fireplaces, or any confined spaces, as this can release harmful chemicals. For normal domestic and trade users, dispose of LOSP treated timber waste through regular waste collection and disposal services. However, large amounts of LOSP treated timber waste may require special approval from your local authority.
If undesirable effects such as skin irritation, headaches, or light-headedness occur while handling LOSP treated timber, cease use immediately and review your personal protection measures.
When using LOSP treated timber, it's crucial to follow specific restrictions to ensure safety and effectiveness in various applications.
Water Contact
LOSP treated wood should not be used in applications where it may come into contact with public drinking water.
Food Safety
Avoid using LOSP treated wood for projects that involve direct contact with food, such as cutting boards, countertops, or food storage containers.
Child Safety
LOSP treated timber should not be used in the manufacture of toys for young children.
Beehives
LOSP treated timber should not be used in the manufacture of beehives, as the chemicals could be harmful to bees.
Make Sure You Know Your Requirements
The Hazardous Substances & New Organisms (HSNO) documents outline the compliance requirements for the treated timber industry. If you run or work in a treatment plant, it's a great idea to familiarise yourself with these requirements.
Other Timber Treatment Methods
While LOSP is an excellent choice for many timber products, it’s just one of several methods used to enhance the durability of wood. Other treatments, such as CCA (Copper, Chromium, and Arsenic) and Boron treatments, are also effective for different applications.
The Role of the NZTPC and WOODMark®
The NZ Timber Preservation Council (NZTPC) ensures that timber treated in New Zealand, regardless of the treatment method, adheres to the highest standards of quality and safety. Treatment plants that meet these rigorous standards can become licensees of the WOODmark® brand, a symbol of quality timber.
Guidelines and Health and Safety
To qualify as a WOODmark® licensee, treatment plants must follow strict guidelines for treatment quality and comply with stringent health and safety regulations. This ensures that timber is treated effectively and that the process safeguards both workers and the environment.
Compliance
Licensees and operators of treatment plants can find more information about compliance with the Hazardous Substances & New Organisms (HSNO) Act here, ensuring that they meet all legal and safety requirements.
Always Look for the WOODmark ®
By choosing WOODMark® branded timber, you can be confident that the wood you’re using has been treated to the highest standards, providing long-lasting durability and safety for your projects.
Become a WOODmark® Licensee
NZTPC welcomes new WOODMmark® licensees and is dedicated to supporting and nurturing the community.