Metalworking Fluids (MWFs)

Abstract

Abstract Metal working fluids (MWFs) comprise a complex class of chemicals used in the processing and machining of metal products. A wide variety of additives are used to improve the functionality and longevity of MWFs and include detergents, antioxidants, buffering agents, anti‐foaming agents, and antimicrobials. Importantly, during the use of MWFs, the aerosolized fluids are contaminated by microbial products particularly in the water‐based MWFs. The majority of literature on the adverse human health effects associated with exposure to MWFs can be attributed to mixed exposures to predominantly water‐based fluids, with some straight oil data. Similarly, many of the experimental animal toxicology studies have also examined water‐based fluids and unfortunately, the development and production of MWFs are rapidly changing, and thus health studies have largely been conducted using MWFs that may no longer be in use. This chapter presents the current knowledge on the adverse health effects associated with exposure to water‐based, synthetic, and semi‐synthetic MWFs.