Tales from the Toolbox |
Mineral Oil |
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Having worked for many years
in the engineering trade I have had to conform to rules and regulations
regarding health and safety, from the correct operation and use of
breathing equipment in poisonous or explosive atmospheres to the correct
use of a bench grinder, but no one seems bothered about the thousands of
DIY mechanics who risk their health every time they perform repairs or
service to their motor vehicles. I have therefore dragged out my files
and found a cautionary notice from the Heath and Safety Executive and
have re-typed it below. The idea behind this is to get the budding
mechanics out there to stop and think about what they are working with,
for example when draining the engine oil could a pair of rubber gloves
be used when handling the oil? |
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There
are many other dangers when working on motor vehicles. The notice below
is aimed at engineering workshops but most of it applies to general
areas of Health and Safety when handling mineral oils. |
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Effects Of Mineral Oil On
The Skin.
The term Mineral Oil is
intended to include a wide range of hydrocarbon fractions from light
oils such as kerosene and gas oils, to the heavier fuel and lubricating
oils. The effects of mineral oils on the skin vary according to the
duration of exposure and to the type and grade of oil used.
Skin Rashes.
Oil acne is recognised by the
presence of blackheads, pimples and pustules. The arms are most often
affected, but the rash may occur on any part of the body where there is
contact with oil or oily clothing. Fuel oils, such as diesel oils are
known to cause dermatitis. The lighter fractions also remove the
protective grease normally present on the surface of the skin. This
renders the skin dry, liable to crack and more prone to damage caused by
cuts and abrasions due to metal swarf and also to irritant chemicals.
Skin Cancer. Prolonged exposure to certain mineral oils, eg used engine oils, may lead to the development of warty swellings or sores, which are slow to heal and which may be cancerous. These may occur on the scrotum in particular. Delay in seeking treatment may be fatal.
Precautions.
Avoid as far as possible any
skin contact with mineral oil or with clothing contaminated with mineral
oil.
Before Work.
1
Put on and carefully adjust any protective clothing that is
provided. Change and clean all work clothes (including protective
clothing) at least once a week. Dry cleaning is necessary to remove
mineral oil from clothing.
2
Use suitable barrier creams, which may give some protection
against mineral oil and assist the cleaning of the skin after work.
Lanolin based hand creams are usually very effective. Re-apply before
work is resumed after each break.
At Work.
1
Make full use of protective devices such as splash guards.
2
Take care to prevent ordinary clothes, especially underwear, from
becoming contaminated with oil.
3
Do not put oily rags or tools in pockets, especially trouser
pockets.
4
Examine your skin, particularly your scrotum, each time you bath
or shower.
5
Remove metal particles and swarf from machines with the
implements provided.
6
Have first aid treatment at once for any injury, however slight.
After Work.
1
Make regular use of washing facilities, including baths, to
ensure that all oil is removed from the skin. Having washed with soap,
rinse repeatedly with water until the skin is clean. Dry carefully.
2
Skin cleansers may help in the removal of mineral oil.
3
Use of conditioning cream after washing helps to counter
de-greasing of the skin.
Action.
Seek immediate medical
attention for any rash, wart or sore developing on any part of the body,
particularly the scrotum. |
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