Workers can become exposed to oil mist through either skin contact, inhalation or ingestion. Many health experts believe that most occupational exposure results from skin contact. While oil mist is dangerous on its own, it often becomes contaminated with other chemicals, making it even more toxic to worker health.
Studies have linked long-term exposure of oil mist to an increased susceptibility of several types of cancer. Other health problems associated with exposure include:
- Contact Dermatitis/ Photosensitive allergic dermatitis
- Bronchial asthma
- Lipoid pneumonia
- Rhinitis
- Bronchitis
- Lung fibrosis
- Lung Cancer
- Benign and malignant tumors of the scrotum
Symptoms associated with high concentrations of oil mist include:
- Shortness of breath
- Eye and skin irritation
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Burning sensation in mouth, throat and stomach
Up to one million workers in the United States are exposed to hazardous oil mist on a daily basis.