As a turner working on a machine, there are several harmful and dangerous chemical factors that one should be aware of. These factors can pose health risks and have detrimental effects on the body. In this text, we will discuss some of the most common chemical hazards that turners may encounter in their working environment.
One of the primary chemical hazards faced by turners is exposure to metalworking fluids. These fluids are used to cool and lubricate the machine and the metal being worked on. However, they can also release hazardous substances, such as cutting oils, coolants, and lubricants, into the air. Inhalation or skin contact with these metalworking fluids can lead to various health issues.
Inhalation of metalworking fluid aerosols or mists can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Prolonged exposure can also lead to occupational asthma, a chronic condition that is characterized by recurrent episodes of coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This can greatly affect the worker's overall health and quality of life.
Skin exposure to metalworking fluids can result in irritant dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, or oil acne. Irritant dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with the fluid for extended periods, leading to redness, itching, and sometimes blistering. Allergic contact dermatitis, on the other hand, is an immune response to certain substances present in the fluid. It causes itching, redness, swelling, and sometimes the formation of blisters. Oil acne, also known as "machine acne," occurs when the fluid clogs the pores and hair follicles, leading to the development of pustules and cysts on the skin.
Apart from metalworking fluids, turners may also come into contact with hazardous solvents and chemicals used for cleaning or degreasing the machinery and parts. These solvents can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, toluene, and xylene, which are known to have harmful effects on human health. Inhalation or skin absorption of these solvents can result in acute symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, and irritation of the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic health conditions such as liver damage, kidney damage, and even cancer.
To mitigate the risks associated with these chemical hazards, employers should implement effective control measures. One of the primary measures is to provide adequate ventilation in the workplace to reduce the concentration of airborne contaminants. Local exhaust ventilation systems can be used to capture and remove metalworking fluid aerosols or solvent vapors before they can be inhaled by the workers. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the ventilation system are crucial to ensure its effectiveness.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) should also be provided to the turners. This may include respiratory protection, such as masks or respirators, to prevent inhalation of harmful substances. Protective gloves and clothing should be worn to minimize skin contact with metalworking fluids or solvents. Employers should educate the workers on the proper use and maintenance of PPE to ensure its effectiveness.
Regular monitoring of the workplace environment is essential to assess the effectiveness of control measures and identify any potential hazards. Air sampling and analysis can be conducted to measure the concentration of hazardous substances in the air. The results can help in determining whether further control measures are required or if the existing measures are adequate.
In conclusion, turners working on machines may encounter several harmful and dangerous chemical factors in their working environment. The exposure to metalworking fluids and solvents can pose significant health risks, such as respiratory problems, skin issues, and even chronic conditions. It is crucial for employers to implement effective control measures, provide necessary PPE, and regularly monitor the workplace to ensure the safety and well-being of the turners.
