EMPLOYERS DUTIES
1. Assess risks (under COSHH and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations).
2. Remove or reduce any identified risks.
3. Provide information, instruction and training and, where appropriate, health surveillance.
4. Maintenance of effective control measures.
5. Ensure a proper MWF management system to ensure quality and to reduce the risk from contamination etc. The free leaflet Management of Metalworking Fluids - a guide to good practice for minimising risks to health' (IND(G)168L) provides useful advice (as Do's and Don'ts) under the following headings, from which certain key points have been taken:-
GENERAL ADVICE
Storage of fluids - correct conditions, location, environment
- prevention of spread of spills
- protection from moisture
Maintenance of fluids and coolant systems
- trained personnel
- regular monitoring of MWF
- results to be recorded
- top up with a separately mixed emulsion
- keep machine clean and free from debris
- keep coolant tank covered
- use filters to remove swarf and fines
- consider the need for removal of 'tramp' oil (extraneous oil)
- ensure that leaks from hydraulic and gearbox systems are reported and dealt with promptly
Cleaning and filling coolant systems
- thorough cleaning of sump pipework, machine and guards before refilling with MWF
- use of a compatible cleaner
- use of drinking quality water of correct hardness
- add concentrate to the water, not vice versa
- use of a refractometer to check the mist is at the correct strength (relatively cheap hand-held ones are available)
- use of protective equipment
Operation of machines
- provide training and instruction for employees using MWF
- enclose the process where possible; maintain and use spray covers, etc.
- ensure correct coolant flow
- provide local exhaust ventilation where significant mist is unavoidably produced
- ensure speeds and feeds are compatible with cutting tools and materials being worked
- follow correct working procedures
HEALTH CHECKS
Where employees have regular skin contact with MWF or exposure to fume, mists or aerosols a health surveillance programme will probably be necessary.
A responsible person should be appointed and assigned appropriate duties. If suitably trained for the purpose, this person could be a first aider or supervisor. Otherwise it should be an occupational health physician/nurse. Duties should include ensuring regular skin inspections and related audits/checks. The former may be made at approximately monthly intervals. An effective medical referral system should be in place. Records of a health surveillance programme need to be kept for a period of 40 years from the last entry.
PROTECTION, HYGIENE, FIRST AID
Personal protective equipment (PPE) should only be used as an additional measure where adequate control by other means is not reasonably practicable. This may include :-
· eye protection and (pocketless) overalls for splash protection.The lack of pockets should help prevent contamination of thegroin area by oil-contaminated wipes/rags.
· impervious aprons.
· any use of gloves should be very carefully approached (entanglement risks)
· respiratory protective equipment - not commonly required.
· separate accommodation for clean/ordinary clothing and dirty overalls.
Personal hygiene: high standards are vitally important. Considerations include the provision and use of washing facilities and frequent laundering where necessary. Barrier creams are no substitute for good personal hygiene.
First Aid: proper and prompt first aid is essential. Eye irrigation/washing facilities need to be ensured.
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