Australian blackwood

Agent Name
Australian blackwood
Major Category
Biological Agents
Synonyms
Acacia melanoxylon R.Br.
Category
Wood Dusts & Extracts
Sources/Uses
This wood of this Australian tree is used for many purposes including indoor and outdoor construction. The tree also grows in Tasmania, Africa, South America, and India. [Kanerva, p. 827, 1323]
Comments
Allergic contact dermatitis and asthma have been reported. [ILO Encyclo: Woodworking Processes, Table 1] Cases of woodworkers (joiners, furniture makers, house and boat builders) with allergic contact dermatitis have been reported in Australia since 1925. A case was reported in the wife of a cabinetmaker whose workshop was in the basement. The main allergen is Melacacidin. [Kanerva, p. 827] Occupational asthma was confirmed in 3 furniture workers with specific bronchoprovocation testing. [Malo]
Biomedical References

Adverse Effects

Skin Sensitizer
Yes
Asthma
Yes

Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

Activities

Activities with risk of exposure: