Get Ready for HSE Metalworking Inspections

What are the dangers posed by metalworking fluids and machinery coolants?

• Irritation to hands forearms, including dermatitis
• Burns to exposed skin
• Poisoning via inhalation
• Harm to lungs and organs via inhalation
• Lowered white blood cell counts
• Bacterial infections
• Lung diseases such as asthma and pneumonitis

HSE Inspectors will focus on how employers are ensuring their workers are protected from exposure to metal working fluids or mist generated by computer numerical control (CNC) machines. They will need to see that regular health checks are in place and assess how strictly they are adhered to.

Why are the HSE carrying out metalworking inspections?

Work Right are running a campaign focussed on improving standards for metalworkers. They state that manufacturing companies, particularly smaller companies, commonly fall down on compliance.

The UKLA (United Kingdom Lubricants Association) has echoed this sentiment. They have published guidance on Good Practice for Safe Handling and Disposal of Metalworking Fluids, including helpful advice and health surveillance pictures. The UKLA have also published a practical series of videos, involving easy to follow demonstrations and quick tests that can be carried out by metalworking businesses.

What will HSE inspectors look out for when visiting metalworking businesses?

1. Local exhaust ventilation
2. Regular fluid quality checks
3. Failing to provide regular health checks for lung and skin conditions.

Why do machinery businesses need local exhaust ventilation (LEV)?

The mist produced during machining is harmful to workers health when inhaled. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) should be fitted to CNC machines where operators are exposed to mist.

Why should businesses do regular fluid quality checks?

When fluid, such as white water, remains in the machine over time, it becomes contaminated and bacteria may grow. Poor fluid quality can also affect the machine’s performance and the part’s deterioration. PH and Bacteria levels should be monitored daily.

How should businesses perform regular health checks?

The law required that employers have health and safety measures in place when health risks have a high likelihood of being present. A surveillance scheme must be in place, this is because measures cannot be relied upon. Occupational health experts will need to be involved in order to remain compliant.

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How to prepare for a HSE metalworking inspection:

• LEVs should be fitted to disperse fluid mist. Metalworking fluids and mists are difficult to see in normal light.
• Fluid quality should be checked every day. Checks need to focus on concentration, pH, bacteria and contaminants.
• Health surveillance and preventative measures need to be in place. The regular checks will inform whether the control measures are working.
• The use of occupational health professionals, who can help provide guidance on measures and report any health symptoms of your employees, is essential and should be documented.