Page 37 - MetalForming July 2014
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 Depending on the application, metalworking fluids (MWFs) can vary in chemical composi- tion and therefore in the overall hazard they may pose to workers. It’s impor- tant for any metalworking company to evaluate, for every MWF being used, the protection in place to prevent injury from MWF exposures.
Here we focus on common concerns regarding MWFs, and related safe work practices.
Skin Injuries
If not handled or maintained prop- erly, MWFs can cause a variety of skin problems. Some soluble and synthetic MWFs are strong alkaline solutions containing additives that require mon- itoring parameters such as pH and bio- cide content. Overexposure of the skin to these fluids can cause:
• Irritant dermatitis, the most com- mon type of skin problem due to MWF exposures. Some solutions can remove the protective oils in the skin, damage the natural skin barrier and cause dry,
inflamed skin particularly on the hands and arms. Small cuts (from metal chips, for example) can exacerbate these problems, increasing the potential for dermatitis.
• Allergic dermatitis—Fluid addi- tives such as corrosion inhibitors, preservatives, biocides and amines can cause an allergic reaction. Damaged skin allows these additives to enter the body more easily, and workers can develop sensitivity and allergic reac- tions from even slight exposures to these chemicals, even when the work- er is away from his job.
• Oil acne and folliculitis—MWFs such as straight oils can cause oil acne and can, over time, inflame the skin follicles on exposed skin. In combina- tion with poor industrial hygiene and heavily contaminated clothing, these fluids can increase irritation to the neck, hands, arms and thighs.
Respiratory Concerns
MWF mists and vapors can increase the risk of workers developing work- related asthma, respiratory-tract irrita- tion and breathing difficulties. Prolonged respiratory exposure to fluids combined with worker lifestyle choices, such as tobacco smoking, can lead to greater sensitivity and respiratory illness. Air-
borne exposures also may increase irri- tation to the eyes, nose and throat.
Respiratory exposure is greatest when:
• Machines are not enclosed dur- ing the metalworking process, releasing mist into the general shop area;
• Machines have no local exhaust ventilation or there are inadequate shop engineering controls;
• Metalworking processes involve high-speed tools or deep tooling cuts; and
• Workers are stationed near the metalworking machines during the entire workday.
Safe Work Practices
Hopefully, your business has a strong commitment to safety and has provided the training and knowledge to work safely with MWFs. Here are some additional tips that metalformers should follow:
Shop Environment
• Conduct an air-quality test to check MWF mist concentrations.
• Provide splashguards on machines.
• Properly maintain MWFs by keep- ing correct concentrations and pH.
• Use appropriate biocide additives to control microbial organisms.
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MetalForming/July 2014 35
Safe Work Practices
Follow these tips for managing the safe use of metalworking fluids,
and for performing inhouse safety audits.
 






































































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