Exposure to metalworking fluids can cause both irritation of the skin/dermatitis and lung diseases, such as occupational asthma and occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
HSE has throughout this year been making an effort to raise the awareness of the issues relating to the use of and exposure to metal working fluids, especially where CNC machines are concerned, where LEV need to be utilised. If this is an area of safety you manage but you have not been visited by HSE this year, then look at what you are doing and ensure you will not be failing foul of any legal requirements covering this issue.
Fluid systems that contain water or water-mixes can become highly contaminated with harmful bacteria and this bacterial contamination of fluids and associated machinery and pipework should be monitored and controlled.
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) require exposure to metalworking fluids by inhalation, ingestion or through direct contact with the skin to be prevented where reasonably practicable, or if this cannot be achieved, to adequately control them. As duty-holder’s employers should:
To achieve control and reduce the risk you should:
If this alert has raised questions or you need to discuss any other health & safety related issue do not hesitate to contact your health & safety consultant or the main office for advice/assistance.