Exposure to metal working fluids (MWF)
Exposure to metal working fluids (MWF)
Exposure to metal working fluids (MWF) may be a cause of illness across a wide spectrum of businesses. The Health and Safety Executive (http://213.212.77.20/metalworking/about.htm) have highlighted a range of health concerns associated with the use of water mix metal working fluids.
Prolonged skin contact with MWF can give rise to contact dermatitis. Inhalation of aerosols of MWF can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, occupational asthma, bronchitis, breathing difficulties or, rarely, a more serious lung disease called hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which can cause increasingly severe breathing difficulties in recurrent episodes, following repeated exposure. Exposure to endotoxin arising from the presence of dead bacteria in the metal working fluids can cause flu like symptoms, respiratory irritation and contribute to the development of illnesses such as bronchitis. There may also be a risk of exposure to carcinogens in the unrefined mineral oils containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) These should not be present in water mix metal working fluids. Measurements of workplace concentrations of metal working fluid mists and endotoxins can be carried out by the IOM. Results will be compared to the relevant guidance limits for exposure, thus assisting in the risk assessment process.
IOM Analytical Laboratory can undertake analysis to help in the management of exposure to many of the health hazards associated with MWF. Our services include: