§ Mr. TylerTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what organophosphate lubricants are used in the engines of military(a) fixed winged aircraft and (b) helicopters; and if he will make a statement on possible health hazards for air crews. [66599]
§ Mr. Doug Henderson[holding answer 19 January 1999]: The organic phosphate compound, tricresylphosphate, is present in all lubricants used regularly in military aircraft engines, to enable the lubricant to withstand the load placed on it and to prevent engine seizure. No viable alternative material is available at present.
The inhalation of mist (containing tricresylphosphate), which can be produced by high pressure systems, or direct contact with the skin, would be hazardous. We therefore have in place a number of preventative measures to prevent air and ground crews from being exposed to these hazards and also regularly review the risks to health.