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Machinist dermatitis from coolant: causes and skin protection

Contact dermatitis is the skin disease most often reported with metalworking fluids. Here is what OSHA and NIOSH say about causes and prevention.

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Answers are written by a language model solely from this base's documents, with numbered sources. They can be wrong and aren't legal, medical or financial advice: check the sources before any important decision.

Why hands react to cutting fluids

Contact dermatitis shows as itchy skin and a rash, often with cracks, redness, blisters or bumps. OSHA cites NIOSH figures of 14 to 67 percent of exposed workers at risk.

Causes listed by OSHA include fluid concentration above the recommended level, high alkalinity, tramp oils carrying metal fines, MWF-soaked clothing, abrasive soaps and winter dryness.

Protective equipment and hygiene

Gloves and aprons used against dermatitis must be chemical-resistant or impervious to the fluids. Because gloves can catch in moving tools, the employer should specify which operations allow them.

Workers should wash skin with gentle soap, clean water and clean towels, especially before breaks and meals, and change out of contaminated clothes before leaving.

Frequently asked questions

Do barrier creams work?

OSHA says good quality barrier creams can help if used consistently and reapplied during the shift. They are supplements only, should go on healthy skin, and do not replace gloves or hygiene.

Can a worker with dermatitis keep the same job?

OSHA cites reassignment to an area with no skin exposure, with proper medical treatment, as one option for a serious case.

Why does soaked clothing make things worse?

Water evaporates from the fabric and leaves the fluid at a much higher concentration, which OSHA calls a major cause of dermatitis.

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