UK Lubricants Association releases new guidance on marketing claims for metalworking fluids
30 March 2026 
The United Kingdom Lubricants Association’s Metalworking Fluid Product Stewardship Group (MWFPSG) has released new guidance on the use of marketing performance claims for metalworking fluids, a first for the industry.
In response to the Health & Safety Executive’s concern over the way a minority of metalworking fluids were being promoted, the UKLA MWFPSG worked with metalworking fluid suppliers
across industry and HSE to determine what makes for a valid claim. All claims need to be valid and supportable, with verifiable information.
The publication of the guidance follows an investigation by the UKLA MWFPSG into metalworking fluids making marketing claims which were believed by the HSE not to accurately reflect
the level of risk to human health.
The main human health risks from mismanaging metalworking fluids include potential lung disease and dermatitis. HSE believed that even though a fluid might not contain mineral oil, these complex chemical mixtures might still pose a risk to users if mismanaged and used incorrectly.
Commenting on the guidance, Stuart Duff, Chairman of the UKLA MWFPSG, said: “This guidance represents a positive step forward for the group in improving our support for end users in
safely managing metalworking fluids. Users should always have in mind Fluid-Mist-Health as a shorthand note for managing their fluid, minimising the risks from mist and safeguarding their
health. If in doubt, end users should speak with their reputable fluid supplier.”
The guidance can be found at:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-kingdom-lubricants-association-ltd/