Construction workers are exposed to metal working fluids (cutting oils) when used to cut metal pipes. Laborers’ tasks include picking up the scrap pieces of metal pipes and disposing them. Exposure can occur by inhaling the fine oily mist that hangs in the air for long periods of time and by skin contact with the fluid. Exposed workers most often report skin disorders (skin irritation, rashes, acne) followed by eye, nose and throat irritation, and respiratory symptoms or disorders (breathing problems, cough, chest tightness, asthma). However, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that substantial evidence indicates that some cutting oils are associated with an increased risk of larynx, rectum, pancreas, skin, scrotum, and bladder cancer that can take 20 or more years to develop.

 

NIOSH issued guidance on recommended exposure limits and controls for cutting oils in 1998, but it has become evident that health effects may develop in workers whose exposures are below current occupational exposure limits. Workers exposed to cutting oil mist and residual fluid should use the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) in the form of protective eye wear, oil resistant gloves, and respirator face-pieces that are resistant to oil (i.e. R100 or P100 filter materials).