Metalworking fluid or cutting oil poses potentially dangerous side effects to metal workers who use them, however, metal workers who were injured by the carcinogenic substance may be eligible to join a cutting fluid exposure class action lawsuit.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, metalworking fluids can come into contact with employees either via respiration or incidental contact with the material without protective equipment. In the first case, the metalworking fluids may be aerosolized and this exposure is exacerbated by machine design and the work rate for the process. Cutting fluid side effects are numerous, based on the carcinogenic properties they have.

Cutting Fluid Cancer Side Effects

Metal working fluids have also been linked to larynx, rectum, pancreas, skin, scrotum and bladder cancer.

Similar to asbestos exposure, the onset of symptoms and an eventual diagnosis may take decades.

The CDC notes that “the appearance of most types of cancer is often 20 or more years,” which can make it difficult for people to understand that there could be a link between work performed in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s and a recent diagnosis.

It is important to work with a metal working chemical exposure class action lawsuit attorney because, like mesothelioma cases, it can be important to eliminate other potential risk factors and ensuring the strongest possible complaint seeking damages from the companies responsible for the exposure

Metal Working Chemical Respiratory Side Effects

Asthma is one of the most common cutting fluid side effects, especially for metal workers who have been exposed to the chemicals via an aerosolized source. However, it may also lead to pneumonia and chronic bronchitis.

In severe cases, doctors have found that significantly reduced lung function is possible depending on the length of time a worker spent near these chemicals and what types of materials they used during their career.

Dermatological Side Effects

Metal working fluids have also been a source of skin diseases and skin disorders due to workers exposed to them.

“In 1991, the list of industries with the highest incidence rates for skin disorders (e.g. fabricated, screw machine products, and general industrial machinery) all involved potential MWF exposure,” the CDC says.

The skin diseases or disorders associated with metal working fluid exposure include folliculitis, oil acne, and keratoses. The most common skin disorder linked to metal working fluid is contact dermatitis.