3040 – 01 – Defining Metalworking Fluid Safety
The method of creating shapes out of metals through, molding, cold forming, or metal cutting is named metalworking. Since a lot of these machines create heat and friction as they create the metal, they need to be brought back to a more reasonable level by using metalworking fluids (MWF’s). These oils are normally used either by drip methods, sprays, or just an outburst of fluid that covers the operation area.
MWF’s also have a wide variety of other benefits like preventing smoking and the burning of the part or tool while the metal forms. They can also have better productivity, quality of the part, much better tool life, resistance to corrosion, and bettering operating speeds, and superior chip removal.
Even with all these benefits, if you open yourself to contact with the MWF’s, you run the risk of safety and health risks. These may include irritation of the skin and eye, lung diseases and difficulty breathing, and cancer. This ensures that all workers both employer and employee need to be on the same page with the recommended procedures to keep safe.