Engineering worker - common causes of asthma

Metalworking fluids (MWFs) can cause occupational asthma if you inhale the mist or vapour generated during machining/shaping operations. MWFs can also cause dermatitis.

Follow the link to the metalworking fluids MWFs site for more information

There have been several outbreaks of asthma-like disease using MWFs.

See COSHH Essentials - engineering for detailed advice on control.

Top tips

Reduce disease - reduce exposure to metalworking fluid mists

Minimise mist by enclosing the machine head as much as possible. Provide low misting fluids delivered to the cutting tool at the right rate. Provide mist extraction on enclosed machines.

Further information

Publications

You can find more guidance and information for engineers on the Asthma publications (engineering) pages.

2021-11-19