Step 4 - 10 Best Practices to prevent lubricant cross-contamination

Assigning specific equipment to each lubricant type is a key best practice for preventing cross-contamination. Here are 10 practical examples to help implement this on the shop floor:

1.    Dedicated oil transfer containers:

Use separate, clearly labelled oil cans or transfer jugs for each lubricant type (e.g. “Hydraulic Oil 46” vs “Gear Oil 220”).

2.    Colour-coded grease guns:

Assign a distinct colour and label to each grease gun corresponding to a specific grease grade, avoiding accidental misapplication.

3.    Isolated filter carts:

Have individual filtration units (portable filter carts) for different oil types, especially when used for top-ups or conditioning.

4.    Lubrication tags on pumps and hoses:

Attach durable tags or stickers with lubricant type, ISO grade, and date of last use on pumps, transfer hoses, and couplers.

5.    Drum pumps by fluid type:

Equip each oil drum with its own pump—never use one pump across multiple lubricant types, even if flushed.

6.    Segregated lube stations:

Design separate zones or cabinets for each lubricant category (e.g. one for food-grade lubricants, one for industrial oils).

7.    Dedicated sampling tools:

Use individual syringes, sample valves or suction pumps for each lubricant during oil sampling to prevent trace contamination.

8.    Single-use disposable funnels per lubricant type:

Avoid reusable funnels unless they're permanently dedicated to one oil or grease type and clearly marked.

9.    Labeled catch pans and drain containers:

Use different containers for draining different systems, so drained fluids never get mixed or reused incorrectly.

10.    Barcode or RFID tracking systems:

Digitally assign each tool or container to a lubricant using barcode or RFID labels linked to a central lubrication management system (e.g. SAP or CMMS).