Lubricating oils

Fresh lubricating oils normally present no particular toxic hazard, but all lubricants should always be handled with great care. Used lubricating oils may contain significant amounts of harmful metal and PAH (polyaromatic hydrocarbon) compounds. Avoid prolonged or repetitive contact with the skin. Prevent any risk of splashing. Keep away from heat, ignition sources and oxidizing agents.

There is a risk of long term contamination of the soil and the ground water. Take every appropriate measure to prevent water and soil contamination.

NOTE
Study and follow the safety information provided by the supplier of the lubricating oil.

Safety precautions for handling lubricating oil

When handling lubrication oils:

● Ensure adequate ventilation if there is a risk of vapours, mists or aerosols releasing. Do not breathe vapours, fumes or mist.

● Keep the oil away from flammable materials and oxidants.

● Keep the oil away from food and drinks. Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling lubricating oils.

● Use only equipment (containers, piping, etc.) that are resistant to hydrocarbons. Open the containers in well ventilated surroundings.

● Immediately take off all contaminated clothing. Note also the following:

● Empty packaging may contain flammable or potentially explosive vapours.

● Cloth, paper or any other absorbent material used to recover spills are fire hazards. Do not allow these to accumulate. Keep waste products in closed containers.

● Waste containing lubricating oil is hazardous and must be disposed of according to directives issued by the local or national environmental authorities. Collection, regeneration and burning should be handled by authorised disposal plants.

Personal protection equipment for lubricating oils

Hand protection: Use impermeable and hydrocarbon resistant gloves (nitrile rubber for example). Eye protection: Wear goggles if splash risk exists.

Skin and body protection: Wear facial screen and covering clothes as required.

Use safety footwear when handling barrels. Wear protective clothing when handling hot products.

First aid measures for accidents with lubricating oil

Inhalation of fumes: Move the victim to fresh air. Keep the victim warm and lying still.

Skin contact: Wash immediately with plenty of water and soap or cleaning agent.

Do not use solvents (the oil is dispearsed and may be absorbed into the skin).

Remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical advice if irritation develops.

Eye contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water, and continue for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical advice.

Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting, in order to avoid the risk of aspiration into respiratory organs. Seek medical advice immediately.

Aspiration of liquid product: If aspiration into the lungs is suspected (during vomiting for example) seek medical advice immediately.

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