by Citation News Editor
18. May 2010
The UAW has requested that the federal government establish a comprehensive standard to protect workers from hazardous exposure to metalworking fluids (MWFs). On April 28, the union filed a petition with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration citing severe health consequences which result from occupational exposure to MWFs.
“All workers, union and nonunion, need to be protected by a consistent, rational federal standard for exposure to metalworking fluids,” UAW President Ron Gettelfinger said.
The union is currently seeking MWF safeguards for workers in collective bargaining agreements including improved ventilation, protective equipment, and the reduction in the amount of MWFs used.
Gettelfinger added, “The best way for workers to protect themselves is for them to have a union contract that spells out exactly how companies will protect workers from these dangerous substances. The federal government also has a role: It needs to set standards that are effective, reasonable and consistent.”
More than 1 million workers are exposed to MWFs on the job according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. MWFs are associated with health issues including respiratory conditions and cancer.
