Industrial Hygiene Testing Services

Huntington Beach, California, May 13, 2026

Metalworking fluids (MWFs) play a critical role in industrial machining and grinding operations by reducing heat and friction and helping to remove metal particles. However, when these fluids become contaminated, they can support the growth of bacteria and fungi, potentially posing health risks to exposed workers.

 

One of the most commonly isolated bacteria found in contaminated MWFs is Pseudomonas. Other bacteria that have been identified include:

• Klebsiella pneumoniae
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Enterobacter

 

Fungal contamination is also a concern and may include, among others:

• Penicillium
• Aspergillus
• Fusarium

 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) cautions that while metalworking fluids are used safely by many workers, health problems can arise when fluids are not properly managed or when good hygiene practices are not followed. Potential health effects associated with improperly maintained MWFs include skin irritation, allergic contact dermatitis, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and respiratory symptoms such as bronchitis and asthma. In rare cases, workers have developed hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) due to exposure to contaminated fluids.

 

“OSHA reports that millions of workers across numerous industries are exposed to machining fluids,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager at LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility. “To protect workers from potential exposure risks, hazards associated with MWFs are addressed in specific OSHA standards for general industry, maritime, and construction. Proactive sampling of metalworking fluids can help identify microbial contamination, and air sampling around workers can be instrumental in determining whether inhalation risks are present.”

 

The scientists at LA Testing are dedicated to helping companies that utilize metalworking fluids maintain safer work environments. Their services include comprehensive MWF analyses, access to sampling supplies, air monitoring instruments, and personal protective equipment (PPE). LA Testing has also sponsored an educational video addressing metalworking fluids and microbial exposure risks, available at:
https://youtu.be/G8oKYBBwiow

 

To learn more about this topic or other industrial hygiene, air quality, environmental, health, and safety resources, visit www.LATesting.com, email info@LATesting.com, or call (800) 755-1794. 

 

LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for environmental, indoor air quality and material testing for mercury, asbestos, mold, bacteria, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates, and other chemicals. In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC Elite, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health, and other states. LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro, and San Diego.