1. Scope
1 This practice sets forth guidelines to control respiratory health hazards in the wet metal removal environment. 2. The scope of this pracice does not include prevention of dermatitis which is the subject of a seprate practice but which does adopt a similar systems management approach with many control elements in common. 3. This practice focuses on employee exposure via inhalation of wet metal removal fluids and associated airborn agents
No standard exists that give those occupationally exposed to metal removal fluid mists and contaminants comprehensive guidance for minimizing health hazards asscociated with that exposure nor guidance for an occupational exposure guideline (OEG) itself. Furthermore, aside from the now eight-year-old OSHA Metalworking Fluids: Safety & Health Best Practices Manual (which by incorporates by reference the NIOSH Recommended Expsure Limit but does not recommend an OEG of its own), no voluntary consensus standard document exists which includes: discussion of health hazards associated with wet metal removal fluids; fluid management practices to minimize mist generation; minimizing fluid properties associated with adverse health effects; testing and maintenance; product selection; selection and use of additives; engineering control methods; safe work practices; air monitoring methods; medical surveillance; communication and training. The standard will be used by employers and employees alike to minimize health hazards associated with occupational exposure to metal removal fluid mists and contaminants and may be adopted by OSHA in lieu of a 6(b) standard.
Keywords
metal working fluid; metal removal fluid; MWF; MRF; respiratory health hazard; fluid management; occupational exposure guideline; OEG; medical surveiallance; systems management
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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