Smelling saw dust or wood chips, is it possible you are working with a demon or entity that is known for working with animals or known as a woodland, forest dwelling entity? If you think about it, there are alot of stories in books and online that try to prove many of the demons we know today, were actually pagan gods and goddesses. Like Astaroth can be linked to Isis. Some believe that they are the same beings, but with religious stories perverting the original contexts over time, it is now assumed that these beings are “evil” demons by christianity.
A pagan might argue that they are the same being, but only known as demons today because judeo religions have turned them into such. I have also heard that the original form of the word demon (Daemon) means divine. Maybe there’s a link there and someone you are working with is known in another cultures as an earth spirit. Because I would associate wood with the forest, sensing a strong connection to the element of earth. It could also be an entity that seeks to connect with you and the smells are a way to get you to investigate. For instance, Astaroth, when she wants to connect with me or tell me something, she doesn’t wait for evocation, she starts flashing things in front of my face, ideas, sensations, emotions, and smells that are like clues for me to follow.
However, that’s how I learn. I have a massive collection of Nancy Drew dectective games and have always learned by piecing things together like a puzzle and she knows this. So maybe this woodsy scent is a clue of sorts? I would suggest researching demons and pagan gods (because both types of literature are helpful in figuring out who is trying to contact you) that are associated with the forest, earth, or animals. Also, take into account when you smell this, how you feel. Do you get any sudden emotions, ideas, or thoughts that come to mind? Start writing down everything that comes to mind and how you feel when you smell the wood dust, it may lead to further information in the future.
Sounds odd I know, but this is how many entities contact me and let me know answers to my questions or tell me things to avoid. You may be the same way. And please do not discredit what I said about pagan gods. There are many strong links between gods and demons. White magick as a whole may not be effective, but many of the techniques can be when applied to black magick principles.