Machining processes produce many hazardous contaminants that origins from the metalworking fluids. Machinists are usually well aware of the safety hazards associated with operating machines. Less known are the health hazards associated with the use of metalworking fluids.
During milling, turning, grinding and boring (and other metal-cutting machining activities) metalworking fluids form a mist of small droplets. The oil mist is suspended in the air and can be inhaled and ingested. When these fluids form into a mist during the machining process the larger droplets can pass into the nose and windpipe and can be swallowed. The smaller droplets can deposit into the lungs. This can off course be unhealthy and very irritating to the eye, nose and throat.