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Metalworking Fluids Safety and Health Topics
Metalworking Fluids
In Focus
Metalworking fluids (MWFs) can cause adverse health effects through skin contact with contaminated materials, spray, or mist and through inhalation from breathing MWF mist or aerosol. Millions of workers engaged in the manufacture of automobiles, farm equipment, aircraft, heavy machinery, and other hardware are exposed to machining fluids.

The following questions link to information relevant to metalworking fluids in the workplace.
OSHA Standards What OSHA standards apply?
Standards | Standard Interpretations
Health Effects What are metalworking fluids and what are their health effects?
Evaluation and Controls How are potential exposures to metalworking fluids evaluated and controlled?
Additional Information What additional information is available?
Related Safety and Health Topics Pages | Other Resources

In Focus
Hot Topics Alliances
  • Independent Lubricant Manufacturers Association (ILMA). OSHA Alliance Page.
    • Metalworking Fluids in Small Business: A Health and Safety "QUICKSTART" Guide. Through the OSHA and ILMA Alliance, ILMA developed the QUICKSTART guide to provide a brief step-by-step outline on how to work safely with metalworking fluids (MWFs) and to help small businesses and their employees effectively manage the health, safety and environmental impacts of MWFs.
    • Dermal Assessment Guide. 5 MB PDF, 15 pages. Through the OSHA and ILMA Alliance, ILMA developed the Dermal Assessment Guide to help small businesses understand the possible connection between instances of employee dermatitis and facility operations that use metal removal fluids.
 Safety and
 Health Topics
 
  Metalworking Fluids
  OSHA Standards
  Health Effects
  Evaluation and Controls
  Additional
Information
  Credits
 
Content Reviewed 08/01/2007
 
 

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 Page last updated: 02/07/2008