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Metalworking Fluid Hazards at Work
Health Risks Include Occupational Asthma to Dermatitis
Anyone working in engineering or manufacturing will be familiar with metalworking fluid hazards at work. These fluids, containing different chemicals, are used for machining and cutting operations. Exposure to these fluids can lead to chronic respiratory conditions and other health conditions.
They can also become contaminated from use, which may include metal particle from machining. Bacterial and fungal contamination may also occur in poorly maintained fluids. Toxic effects from metalworking fluids may impact the health of assembly workers, machine operators or mechanics, metalworkers or machine setters.
While there are safety industrial guidelines, if you have suffered from metalworking fluid exposure due to employer negligence which has result in ill health, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim.
We partner with experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Contact Jefferies Claims today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Health Risks Do Metalworking Fluids Pose?
Exposure to metalworking fluids has a range of effects for workers. These may include:
Skin Conditions
One of the biggest dangers of metalworking fluids is contact dermatitis. This happens when the skin comes into direct contact with contaminated fluid. This may cause redness, itching, dryness, and even painful blisters. Some workers develop allergic dermatitis, where the immune system reacts negatively to certain additives in the fluid.
Respiratory Issues
If metalworking fluids become airborne as mist or vapor, workers can breathe them in. This may result in severe respiratory conditions, with the most common being occupational asthma. This is because exposure to metalworking fluids irritates the airways, causing wheezing, shortness of breath, and chronic coughing.
More severe exposure can lead to a condition called hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). This is a type of lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to bacteria, fungi, or chemicals present in the fluid. Symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. If symptoms are not treated, HP can cause permanent lung damage.
Long-Term Health Risks
Some of these fluids contain carcinogenic substances, so long-term exposure may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. This may especially lead to lung cancer. Additionally, some fluids contain biocides and other additives that can have unknown long-term effects on the body.
When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim?
If you’ve suffered harm due to exposure to metalworking fluids at work, you might be entitled to compensation. Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from hazardous substances. This includes metalworking fluids and if they fail to do so are suffer from health issues as a result, you may have grounds for a claim.
Employers must ensure proper safety measures are in place. This includes adequate ventilation to reduce airborne mist, proper protective equipment and regular fluid maintenance.
If you have been diagnosed with a health condition which your doctor confirms is due to working with metalworking fluids, it is worth finding out more about claiming compensation. You will be required to show that the illness has impacted your life. This may involve medical expenses, physical pain or suffering or being unable to work.
It is important to be aware that you usually will have three years from the date of diagnosis to file a personal injury claim. A personal injury lawyer will be able to thoroughly assess your case.
Contact Us Today
If you have been diagnosed with a health condition due to metalworking fluid exposure,, it’s crucial to seek legal advice promptly. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and at Jefferies Claims, we can guide you through making a claim.
To discuss your potential claim in confidence, contact our team at Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial, no-obligation consultation with one of our friendly team.