Metalworking inspections by the HSE – Health and Safety Bulletin (Sept/2023)
Metalworking inspections by the HSE start in October
From October until March 2024, HSE will be inspecting manufacturing businesses that
use metalworking fluids or coolants in their machining processes.
Inspectors will be focused on how employers are ensuring workers are protected from
exposure to fluid or mist generated by computer numerical control (CNC) machines and that
regular health checks are in place.
There are 3 areas where manufacturing companies, particularly smaller companies,
commonly fall down on compliance:
• not having Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)
• not completing regular fluid quality checks
• not providing regular health checks for lung and skin conditions.
Be prepared for inspection Metalworking fluid is a hazardous substance that comes under COSHH regulations (Control
of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002).
Exposure to metalworking fluids can cause harm to lungs and skin through inhalation or
direct contact with unprotected skin; particularly hands, forearms and face. Breathing in the
mist generated by machining can lead to lung diseases such as occupational asthma and
occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis.
To reduce exposure, you need control measures in place. LEV should be fitted on CNC
machines to carry away any harmful metalworking fluid mist, which is difficult to see in
normal lighting.
Fluid quality should be regularly checked, focusing on concentration, pH, bacteria and
contaminants. Fluid systems can become highly contaminated with harmful bacteria.
Where there is exposure to fluid or mist, it is a legal requirement to carry out health
surveillance even when preventative controls are in place. You will need to involve an
occupational health professional and workers should be encouraged to report any health
symptoms that occur.
If you would like help in implementing or further advice this, please get in touch