The 3 main purposes of exposure are from chromium metal added to alloy steel to increase hardenability and corrosion resistance. Cr (VI) compounds are also added to pigments in dyes, paints, inks, and plastics. Or may be used as an anticorrosive agent added to paints, primers, and other surface coatings. Another source of Cr (VI) compound chromic acid is used to electroplate chromium onto metal parts to provide a decorative or protective coating.
Some of the industry workplace health and safety exposure operations are:
- the production and use of stainless steel and other chromium alloys (and during
- the welding and cutting of these);
- pigments for paint and pottery;
- catalysts in the chemical manufacturing industry;
- the production of dyestuffs;
- leather tanning agents;
- electroplating/anodising.
How can it enter your body? Breathing in dust, fumes or mist; skin contact with solutions or solids; swallowing it, through handling food when you have chromium dust on your hands.
Single exposures to hexavalent chromium compounds can cause:
- irritation and inflammation of the nose and upper respiratory tract if such compounds are in the air;
- irritation of the skin with skin contact – and for chromic acid, burns to the skin, possibly leading to ulcers;
- eye damage from splashes.
Repeated exposure to hexavalent chromium compounds can cause:
- damage to the nose, including ulcers and holes in the flap of tissue separating the nostrils (the nasal septum);
- inflammation of the lungs;
- allergic reactions in the skin and respiratory tract;
- kidney damage;
- cancer of the lung;
- based on experimental data, concerns about potential effects on reproduction, in both male fertility and the development of unborn babies
Does your workplace perform any of these workplace operations? Occupational Matters experienced hygienist can assist with onsite occupational hygiene testing & reports. www.occmatters.com.au