[Occupational exposure to oil mist resulting from the use of cutting fluids]

Basing on literature data on toxic effects of oil mist as well as on the results of epidemiological studies, an airborne concentration of 5 mg/m3 of oil mist was suggested as a safe value and 10 mg/m3--as a limit value MAC. Analytical methods used to determine oil mist in the air were surveyed. The fluorescence method was regarded as the best one for evaluation of occupational exposure within low concentrations. Also the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons seems to be advisable at the workstations where cutting fluids are used. A number of recommendations wee given aimed at a decrease in occupational risk at work with oils and oil emulsions used as a cooler.