OSHA

Hexavalent Chromium Facts

Hexavalent Chromium compounds are man-made and are a toxic form of the element chromium.

Workers in various occupations are exposed to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) when they handle or work within the following industries:

• Welded or Cut Metals Containing Chromium (Stainless Steel)
• Pigments Containing Dry Chromate
• Spray Paints & Coatings that Contain Chromate
• Operate Chrome Plating Baths

Without the proper protection and equipment employees can be seriously harmed by prolong exposure to hexavalent chromium which may cause the following health problems:

• Lung Cancer
• Damage to the Respiratory System
• Skin and Eye Damage

Health Problem Descriptions:

• Cancer: All forms of hexavalent chromium are considered to be carcinogenic to workers. The longer the worker is in contact and inhales hexavalent chromium the higher the risk becomes for that worker to develop cancer.  Previous studies made on workers in chromate production, chromate pigment and chrome electroplating industries, (prior to 1980) showed an increased rate of lung cancer mortality.
• Damage to the Respiratory System: The lungs, nose and throat can be severely irritated by repeated or prolonged exposure to hexavalent chromium.  The membranes of the nasal passages can form ulcers that can cause nosebleeds and eventually the septum, separating the nasal passages, could be perforated. Allergies can develop and lead to asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath.
• Skin and Eye Damage: With prolong exposure, dermatitis and skin ulcers could develop. Workers with very sensitive skin may be susceptible to serious skin rash that over time will become thick and crusty.

How Employees Can Be Exposed

• Airborne dust, fumes or mist with  hexavalent chromium pollutants can be inhaled
• Welding and hot-working stainless steel, high chrome alloys and chrome-coated metals
• Applying or removing chromate-containing paints and other surface coatings
• Working near chrome electroplating
• Direct handling of any material that contains hexavalent chromium solutions, coatings or cements

(Source: OSHA – For more information on Hexavalent Chromium go to www.osha.gov)