Introduction This pamphlet presents@ in general terms@ the causes and particularly the prevention of skin disorders (dermatoses) which may result from exposure to cutting fluids@ namely petroleum cutting oils@ emulsions and synthetic coolants. The history of the dermatoses associated with cutting oils@ and emulsions antedates the development of modem specialized cutting oils@ emulsions and lubricants by many years. The earliest reference to oil dermatoses mentions@ chiefly@ skin lesions of spinners and machinists exposed to sperm and shale lubricating oils. The first published report of oil acne appeared in 1861. Since then@ and closely identified with the rapid technological advances of modern industry@ considerable literature on the subject has been accumulated. The first and most important step in planning a program for combating dermatoses is to acquire knowledge about the factors affecting their occurrence. A program of this nature@ suitably organized and administered@ is capable of achieving considerable success in reducing the incidence of skin disease.