If not, suitable arrangements can be made with their own general practitioners. This allows chemicals to penetrate the skin and cause irritation. Allergic skin reactions may be caused by some components of metalworking fluids, particularly biocides. Sensitisation may also result from exposure to metals such as cobalt, nickel and chrome. Certain metalworking fluids may leach out such metals, for example from swarf and fines from machined components.
Fluids are available that have special inhibitors to minimise leaching.
Abnormalities should be referred to the works occupational health physician or nurse if there is one. If not, employees should be advised to consult their general practitioner. In either case referral to a consultant dermatologist may be appropriate. Employees should be trained to recognise symptoms of disease and report these. Certain metals, if leached into metalworking fluids, may cause respiratory sensitisation if they are then breathed as aerosols or mists.