Health risks from working
March 1st 2007 What are metalworking fluids and what are they used for? Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are neat oils or water-based fluids which are sometimes referred to as suds, coolants, slurry or soap. These types of fluids are typically used in metalworking, textile machinery, rock drills, mist lubricants, agricultural sprays, concrete moulds, corrosion preventives, printing inks and rubber extenders. Metalworking fluids are mostly applied by using continuous jet, spray or hand dispensers. What causes the damage? Harm is caused by: Inhaling the mist that is generated during machining/shaping operations Direct contact with unprotected skin, particularly on the hands and forearms Indirect contact via inappropriate clothing or protection which becomes soaked It can also be made worse by accelerating factors, such as working with unprotected cuts and abrasions or other skin problems and poor personal hygiene, for example not washing hands before eating. What are the main health risks from working with metalworking fluids? The main risks are irritation to the skin or dermatitis, occupational asthma and bronchitis following repeated exposure. There is even a possibility that carcinogenic substances (polycylic aromatic amines and nitrosamines) may be formed under certain conditions of usage. Other factors include: Bacterial contamination of fluids and associated machinery and pipe work. Water-mix wash fluids may themselves be hazardous through skin contact and inhalation. A serious health concern associated with metalworking fluids is dermatitis. Every year, around 200 cases of contact dermatitis caused by exposure to cutting oils and coolants are reported to EPIDERM, a scheme to which dermatologists report cases of occupational skin disorders. However these figures are undoubtedly a very substantial underestimate of the true incidence of skin disease. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the United Kingdom, there are also thought to be risks to the skin arising from exposure to water-mix wash fluids used to clean machined components. What are the legal obligations for employers and PPE / glove manufacturers? Employers' HSE obligations require that risk analysis is carried out and appropriate prevention controls are in place to ensure employees' safety in the workplace. For hand protection, the usage of gloves for MWFs, as for any chemical hazard, are regulated by Directive 89-686/EEC, EN420 and EN374. Regulation EN374 defines the liquid-proof levels of gloves and permeation times of the glove fabric against specific chemicals. Ansell enables safe handling when in contact with MWFs Ansell offers a wide range of solutions that can be used for safe handling in contact with MWFs. Furthermore Ansell has recognized that further developments are necessary in this area to enhance safety and comfort for employees. Today, the following Ansell solutions already ensure safety, protection and at the same time a proper comfort level: 1. Ansell nitrile: true barrier film Firstly, nitrile polymer offers optimal protection against a wide range of chemical hazards, particularly against hydrocarbon derivatives – MWFs. For more information on breakthrough times, go to www.ansell.eu Secondly, nitrile polymer offers superior mechanical performance. The prevention of abrasions and cuts is critical when handling operations that include MWFs. 2. Ansell Grip Technology™: prevents loss of control Materials, components and other tools exposed to MWFs are slippery. Ansell Grip Technology™ ensures secure handling of oily, greasy objects with a reduced grip force and consequently less fatigue. Better grip performance leads to better control and improved worker safety. 3. Ansell Aquadri™: moisture management technology Ansell Aquadri™ technology captures the sweat generated by the hand inside the glove, thus maintaining dry hands and improving worker comfort and glove usage. More articles from Ansell Healthcare Europe NV: | 
