Recent developments in the management of risks associated with exposure to metalworking fluids have led to an holistic approach in which the whole situation is considered instead of breaking it down into its constituent parts. In this respect, there are many similarities with the approach to welding fume.
A risk assessment for metalworking fluids should consider the following:
- Are the correct fluids being used with each material and/or process?
- How are the fluids received, stored and transferred to the point of use? Are there manual handling tasks requiring consideration?
- Are the fluids used as supplied or diluted? If diluted, does the dilution risk exposing the handler’s skin to the concentrated fluid?
- Is there a routine inspection of the fluid sump on each machine to check that the metalworking fluid is in good condition and avoid the presence of tramp oil (from hydraulic fluids and oils used to lubricate the machinery), fungus growths and or other foreign bodies?
- Are operators exposed to spray, mist or vapour at any stage during the machine cycle? This is possible, even with a totally enclosed machine, if the enclosure is opened while the atmosphere in the work area still contains mist and vapour, and especially if the opening guard does not shut off the flow of metalworking fluid to the coolant hose.
- Do the operators regularly get metalworking fluid on their hands and/or arms?
- Are the operators fully trained in the risks associated with metalworking fluids and have they been instructed to advise their supervisor if they experience any lasting symptoms of skin disorder? See the HSE website on metalworking fluids
- Is there a health surveillance scheme in place to cover skin and breathing symptoms? If so, is it conducted by a trained, responsible person? See HSE’s website on metalworking fluids.
- Are there suitable arrangements for the collection of swarf from the machines and the separation of excess coolant in terms of manual handling risks, exposure to the used coolant and its re-use or disposal? Do these arrangements also include prevention of accidental release into any freshwater drains? See the Environment Guide - Emissions to Water.
Appropriate control measures should be put in place to ensure that all the above points, and any others you might identify, are properly managed and regularly monitored.