Have you checked out the Material Safety data Sheets, are any of the chemicals, fluids carcinogenic? i was told when a new baby OH that is why metal workers overalls have thigh patch pockets not side pockets, because they were in 'the olden days' develpoing testicular cancer due to oily rags being kept in thier trouser pockets and contaminating thier underwear.

God only knows what they are ingesting!!!! and what are they contaminating thier work with?

I sympathise, I have worked in a similar environment what an uphill battle, they were even working bare chested 'cos it was too warm to wear thier overalls in the summer !!!!!

----- Original Message -----

From: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">Kay Baxter

To: [log in to unmask] href="mailto:[log in to unmask]">[log in to unmask]

Sent: Monday, February 20, 2012 12:58 PM

Subject: [OCC-HEALTH] Eating in the shop floor

Hi all

I work for an engineering company and currently many of the staff eat their dinner on the shop floor, often at their workstation (i.e. large metal oily object).

For some time we have been looking at ways of getting them to the canteen - lack of time and culture seem to be the main stumbling blocks; however I have been tasked with gathering evidence on the adverse health effects of eating in a dirty area with contaminated hands (oil, paint, grinding dust, welding dust etc). There seems to be little hard evidence out there and I was wondering if anyone has any knowledge, experience or ideas as to where I can find some information. I have the workplace helath, safety and welfare regs as well as working safely with metalworking fluids and know that COSSH sheets may highlight possible effects of ingestion.

All ideas, advice, resources or personal experiences appreciated.

Thanks

Kay