Hexavalent Chromium - Exposure and Controls

Hexavalent Chromium - Exposure and Controls

Exposure and Controls

Evaluating Exposure

Occupational exposure to hexavalent chromium can occur from inhalation of dusts, mists, or fumes containing hexavalent chromium, or from eye or skin contact. The following references provide information on exposure limits and analytical methods used to evaluate hexavalent chromium exposure.

Hexavalent Chromium - Health Effects

Hexavalent Chromium - Health Effects

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Health Effects

Adverse health effects associated with Cr(VI) exposure include occupational asthma, eye irritation and damage, perforated eardrums, respiratory irritation, kidney damage, liver damage, pulmonary congestion and edema, upper abdominal pain, nose irritation and damage, respiratory cancer, skin irritation, and erosion and discoloration of the teeth. Some workers can also develop an allergic skin reaction, called allergic contact dermatitis.

Hexavalent Chromium - Enforcement

Hexavalent Chromium - Enforcement

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Enforcement

This section highlights OSHA directives (instruction to OSHA staff) and letters of interpretation (official letters of interpretation of the standards) related to hexavalent chromium.

Hexavalent Chromium - Standards

Standards

Requirements to protect workers from Cr(VI) exposure are addressed in specific OSHA standards for general industry, maritime, and construction. This section highlights OSHA standards and documents related to the chromium (VI).

OSHA Standards