Billions of pallets are used every day to transport products and goods, and even more, pallets are lying around waiting to be used. This is why it’s no surprise that so many companies handle their business using wooden pallets. However, many businesses have questions about wooden pallet safety and whether or not a wooden pallet is still safe to use.

Choose Safer Treatment Methods when You are Upcycling Pallets

Wooden pallets that are manufactured in Canada or the US will have undergone a pest control treatment called heat treating, which involves heating up the pallet to a core temperature of 56 degrees Celsius to 60 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes in a kiln.

Don’t be Fooled by an Old Appearance

Cherry and oak wood release sap from within during the curing process. This sap coats the wood in a dark stain, which could make pallets look old, however, the heat-treating process does not compromise the strength and durability of pallets. Kiln-dried pallets are not harmful to your health.

Avoid MB Pallets

MB or methyl bromide fumigation is a type of very strong pesticide, which has been linked to human health issues and ozone layer depletion. MB kills invasive species like pine beetles. However, this treatment is now banned in Canada and in many other countries because it poses a big health risk to any workers handling the pallets. However, you might still find pallets like this in some places.

Blue Pallets, Red Pallets or Brown Pallets?

Pallets usually last from four to ten years. Pallet rental companies can maintain the pallets for several uses. Coloured pallets will usually come from a pallet firm. Coloured pallets like blue, red or brown pallets can be controversial. Rental companies own the coloured pallets. They will not treat their pallets with methyl bromide. Rental pallets are sometimes used for international shipping, so there are some concerns. Some countries will fumigate all incoming pallets. But not every country is compliant with international standards.

Remember that you should always use a mask to keep from breathing in any particles or pollutants. One of the most important things to know is that if you cannot establish if the pallets you have are safe, you should not use them. Do not use them for indoor projects like a headboard, coffee table, or other pallet furniture unless it comes from a trusted source.