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California Freight Safety Manual and IIPP 4. Lubricants a. Insoluble Oils and Greases Characteristics: Commonly known as lubricating oils or greases, these oils are generally petroleum based hydrocarbon mixtures that contain no water. Appearance may range from clear light brown liquids to dark brown greases. Oils can be fire hazards because they are combustible. Examples of common oils and greases are multi weight motor oil, gear lubricating oils and cutting oils used in some machining operations. Health Hazards: Petroleum based oils and greases are generally of low toxicity. Oil mists and vapors can be generated from sawing and metal forming operations. Inhalation of these mists may cause mild irritation of the nose and throat. The mist may also irritate the eyes. Overexposure by inhalation, although rare, can cause headaches, nausea, or dizziness. The most common exposure to oils and greases is through the skin. Excessive or prolonged exposure of the skin to oils, especially used, dirty, or contaminated oils, may cause chronic skin conditions such as contact dermatitis. Ingestion of these substances may be harmful, depending on the purity of the oil, and the amount ingested. Personal Protective Equipment/Handling: Under most circumstances, inhalation overexposure to oil products is not common. If no local exhaust ventilation is available in operations that generate oil mist, a respirator with an organic vapor/particulate cartridge should be utilized. There is no substitute for safe work practices and good personal hygiene. Any practical way to reduce time and frequency of skin exposure to oils is recommended. Mild waterless hand cleaners are helpful in removing oil. Never use solvents to clean the skin. This will only increase the risk of unusual skin disorders and/or dermatitis. Oil resistant protective gloves should be used whenever feasible, and skin cream should be applied after washing to prevent drying. Safety glasses or goggles should be worn to prevent oil from splashing into the eyes. Emergency/Special: Lubricating oils, like any other chemicals, should be handled with care. In the event of eye contact, flush with water for 15 minutes, and then seek medical attention. In case of accidental ingestion, do not induce vomiting, give milk or water, and seek medical attention. Any areas of skin contact should be washed thoroughly with mild soap and lukewarm water or waterless hand cleaner to reduce the risk of skin disorders. b. Aerosol Spray Lubricants Characteristics: Aerosol spray lubricants, unlike other oil based lubricants, generally contain a high percentage of halogenated solvents such as 1,1,1 trichloroethane. Examples of spray lubricants include gear oil and silicone spray. Revised January 1,2019 Page 80