What is the HSE campaign about?

The HSE has initiated an important campaign of visiting manufacturing business that use metalworking coolants in their machining processes. Without care, workers could be exposed to fluid or mist that could lead to harm to lungs and skin.

Inspectors will be focused on how employers are ensuring workers are protected from exposure to fluid or mist generated by computer numerical control (CNC) machines and that regular health checks are in place.

What are the health checks?

• To reduce exposure, put control measures in place. LEV should be fitted on CNC machines to carry away any harmful metalworking fluid mist. The size of the particles in the mist make it difficult to see in normal lighting.
• Check fluid quality regularly, focusing on concentration, pH, bacteria and contaminants. Fluid systems can become highly contaminated with harmful bacteria. If workers breathe in the mist and bacteria it could lead to lung disease, such as occupational asthma.
• As metalworking fluid is a hazardous substance that comes under COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002), where there is exposure to fluid or mist, it is a legal requirement to carry out health surveillance (even when preventative controls are in place). Use an occupational health professional should and encourage workers to report any health symptoms that occur.

Where can I find resources to help achieve this?

Metalworking fluid is a hazardous substance that comes under COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002) – COSHH essentials – Metalworking fluids – HSE

The UKLA and HSE have produced an informative guidance in the form of a Good Practice Guide – UKLA-HSE-Good-Practice-Guide-for-Safe-Handling-and-Disposal-of-Metalworking-Fluids.pdf

Also, the UKLA Metalworking Fluid Product Stewardship Group have produced an excellent range of videos to support business who want to manage fluids and keep workers healthy – UKLA Metalworking Fluid Product Stewardship group – YouTube