Property exposures at the carpenter’s own location usually consist of office operation, material, equipment, and vehicle storage. If the carpenter does woodworking at his shop, there is a heavy fire exposure. Careful review of the dust collection system as well as separation and storage of flammable varnishes and glues are mandatory. Some carpenters may have lumber exposure on premises. The more lumber on site, the higher potential for loss, so review should be based on the amount of storage and method. Often three-sided structures are used, which have a high potential for wind damage.

Inland marine exposures centre on the items being transported to and from the job site. Carpentry equipment is not bulky, but if woodworking is done at the shop and then transported, there can be a significant exposure. Also, if there is lumber storage and transport, there can be oversized loads. Lumber tends to shift so training in proper loading and tie down is vital. Further equipment exposures develop from the actual use during construction. Is the equipment being used as it was designed to be used? Is the equipment’s load capacity routinely exceeded?

Equipment may be subject to drop and fall from heights or being struck by other vehicles. If equipment and supplies are left at job sites, what types of crime and vandalism protection are in place? What controls are used?

Occupier’s liability must be taken into consideration. The on-premises exposure is light unless there is woodworking and/lumber storage. With outdoor storage comes vandalism and attractive nuisance exposures that must be protected against. The fire hazard to the insured also brings potential danger to neighbours, so controls in waste collection and fire control is important to protect the neighbours. Off-premises exposures include the use of saws around the work area and the need to keep visitors out of the way. If doing carpentry in existing structures, the insured must be careful about dust collection and scrap removal to prevent fire damage.

Completed operations are an important exposure. The carpenter provides the framework upon which others build. Quality control and full compliance with all construction, material, and design specifications are necessary.

Automobile exposures are limited unless there is the transport of lumber and pre-made items. Proper loading and tie-down is vital to prevent shifting and possible falling from the vehicle. Age, training, experience, and drivers’ records, as well as the age, condition, and maintenance of the vehicles are all important items to consider.

Workplace safety losses tend to be related more to the saws and nails than any other. Although the accident may be frequent, the exposure is relatively light. Properly installed guards, steel toed shoes, and eye protection are the minimum safety equipment that is required for any carpenter. Adequate supervision is essential to keep everyone safe on the job.

Attaching nail to wood is common to all carpenters; however the exposure will vary based on the size of the job. The loss potential is very easily controlled and managed with common sense safety measures and attention to the job.