Main risks

• Splinters and cuts when handling or cutting timber components.
• Panels falling or coming loose if fixings are inadequate.
• Injuries from the use of saws, drills and other cutting tools.
• Inhalation of wood dust and adhesive or finish vapours, potentially causing respiratory or skin irritation.
• Strains and knocks due to the weight and size of the panels.
• Fire risk: wood is combustible, especially near heat sources or sparks.
• Excess moisture: swelling, warping, mould growth and deterioration of the substrate.
• Accidental drilling into concealed electrical cables or pipework.
• Falls when working at height (walls or ceilings) or on floors made slippery by sawdust.

Safe use

• Check that components are sound; lightly sand damaged edges and discard any that are badly deteriorated.
• Wear gloves, safety goggles and a dust mask when cutting, sanding or drilling.
• Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using adhesives, primers or varnishes.
• Locate hidden services with a detector before drilling and, if appropriate, isolate the power supply to the area.
• Ensure the substrate is sound, clean, dry and level; use fixings and adhesives compatible with the substrate and the type of panel.
• Secure pieces firmly during cutting and keep hands away from the cutting line.
• When working at height, use a stable ladder or scaffolding and avoid overreaching; cordon off the work area.
• Keep the area free of sawdust and debris to prevent slips, and minimise dust during cutting.
• Allow full curing and drying times before hanging items or placing weight on the cladding.
• Maintain a safe distance from stoves, radiators, fireplaces and other heat sources.

Storage and maintenance

• Store panels in a dry, ventilated, covered place; avoid moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep packs horizontal on a flat surface to reduce warping.
• Allow the material to acclimatise to the room environment before installation.
• Protect edges during transport and avoid excessive stacking.
• Keep solvent-based products and solvent-soaked cloths away from sparks and flames.
• Clean with a soft cloth, dry or slightly damp; avoid soaking and do not use abrasive products.
• Periodically check fixings, joints and trims; retighten or replace if you notice any looseness.
• For exterior or humid areas, perform maintenance with suitable products only if the cladding is designed for that use.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use the cladding as a structural element or load-bearing support.
• Do not install in areas with direct water exposure or persistent humidity (showers, saunas) unless expressly specified by the manufacturer.
• Do not place the cladding near open flames or intense heat sources.
• Do not hang heavy loads without confirming the capacity of the substrate and the fixing system.
• Do not drill or cut without first checking for the absence of cables, pipes or other concealed services.
• Do not use pieces showing signs of mould, pests, deep cracks or severe warping.
• Keep children and pets away during installation and until adhesives or finishes are completely dry.
• Do not mix adhesives, varnishes or oils that are incompatible with each other or with the wood of the product.