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3 October, 1999OSHA will cut standard for metalworking fluid exposure by 90%.
USA: The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration Metalworking Fluid Standards Advisory Committee has recommended that the previously accepted limit for exposure to metalworking fluids (MWF) be reduced to one-tenth of its current level, or 0.5 mg/M³. This reflects the growing concern over the increased incidence of asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, other respiratory disorders and dermatitis resulting from what used to be considered relatively low levels of exposure to MWF.
The Committee also recognised that "there are other health conditions, including cancer, related to metalworking fluid exposure for which the evidence is still evolving."
For further information on MWF, access the website of the United Autoworkers-UAW (see associated link), or the websites of the following:
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health on www.cdc.gov/niosh/98-102.html
- Organisation Resource Counsellors on www.aware-services.com/entry.htm
The Committee also recognised that "there are other health conditions, including cancer, related to metalworking fluid exposure for which the evidence is still evolving."
For further information on MWF, access the website of the United Autoworkers-UAW (see associated link), or the websites of the following:
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health on www.cdc.gov/niosh/98-102.html
- Organisation Resource Counsellors on www.aware-services.com/entry.htm