If asked, a worker handling machined parts on an assembly line in an automotive plant may not say he works in an oily environment. Yet, after a few hours, his work gloves become black inside and out and he removes and discards them and gets another pair.
This scenario is relatively common in body shops and plants where workers assemble engine and transmission drive trains, handle and assemble sharp components with oily coatings, and work in maintenance or metal press cutting and stamping operations. Oil is used in more than 60 percent of metal fabrication applications — to protect, shape, cut or work metal parts — with 88 percent of workers citing chemicals, oils and grease as their most frequent hazard.