In New York and across the tri-state region, numerous manufacturing companies depend on the use of metalworking fluids (MWFs). MWFs are used to reduce heat and friction and to remove metal particles in industrial machining and grinding operations.

There are a number of MWF formulations ranging from straight oils to water-based fluids, which include soluble oils, and semi-synthetic and synthetic fluids. Water-based metalworking fluids can support microbial growth, which can introduce biological contaminants to a worker’s environment. If these fluids are not properly maintained or changed frequently, microbial contaminants may become established and grow exponentially. These contaminants can include bacterial and fungal cells or cell components, and their related biological byproducts including endotoxins, exotoxins, and mycotoxins.

In fact, The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that nationally, approximately 1.2 million workers in machine finishing, machine tooling, and other metalworking and metal-forming operations could potentially be exposed to these microbial hazards. Workers can be exposed by breathing aerosols generated in the machining process, or through skin contact when they handle parts, tools, and equipment covered with the fluids.

“One of the most commonly isolated types of bacteria from metalworking fluids is Pseudomonas,” said Michael Berrevoets, President, VOETS, LLC. “Others types of bacteria that have been identified include Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Enterobacter, Citrobacter, Achromobacter, and Proteus vulgaris. Fungal growth is also a concern as MWFs have been found contaminated with Penicillum, Aspergillus and Fusarium.”

Occupational exposures to metalworking fluids may cause a variety of health effects. Respiratory conditions include hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP), chronic bronchitis, impaired lung function, and asthma. To protect workers from these exposure risks, the industrial hygiene experts at VOETS offer training, testing, and monitoring services to companies and institutions throughout the tri-state area.