Why metalworking fluids (MWF) present long term health risks, and how to transition away from them

Machine operators around the world are exposed to toxic metalworking fluids on a day to day basis. The flooding and misting systems used require direct contact but also produce a mist in the workplace that's inhaled by these workers, exposing them to a multitude of different health risks.

OSHA has strict permissible exposure limits (PEL) for the mist created by metalworking fluids (MWF). But even with these limits in place, it still requires that each business adhere to these guidelines and also requires each worker to wear protective devices to prevent adverse health effects. Machine shops must use expensive mist collection devices to keep the air quality within the permissible limits, adding costs to an already cost intensive process.

In a perfect world, these precautions would protect these workers for the most part, but never with 100% effectiveness. Plus, we don't live in a perfect world so without constant monitoring of the mist collection devices and adherence by the workers to always wear their protection... the reality is, workers are constantly at risks of short and long term health issues.

There is a better way! It's called micro-lubrication or minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). It removes virtually all health risks due to MWF mist, removes the cost of mist collection devices, removes the cost and time of post production cleanup and is considered by those who have transitioned to MQL to be a more effective method of lubrication.

To get more details, visit MagLube's latest post!