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Arsenic - Standards

Standards

Exposures to arsenic are addressed in specific standards for general industry, maritime, and construction.

OSHA Standards

Arsenic - Possible Solutions

Arsenic - Possible Solutions

Possible Solutions

The following link and references provide information for the control of occupational arsenic exposures.

Arsenic - Exposure Evaluation

Arsenic - Exposure Evaluation

Exposure Evaluation

Industries that use inorganic arsenic and its compounds, where sampling may be necessary, include wood preservation, glass production, nonferrous metal alloys, electronic semiconductor manufacturing, and smelter emissions. Arsenic and its compounds occur in crystalline, powder, amorphous, or vitreous forms. The following references provide information on evaluating occupational exposures to arsenic.

Arsenic - Hazard Recognition

Arsenic - Hazard Recognition

Hazard Recognition

Arsenic exposure in the workplace occurs through inhalation, ingestion, dermal or eye contact. Chronic exposure to arsenic leads to to distinct skin diseases, such as arsenical keratinosis, which is characterized by excessive formation of scaly skin on the palms and soles; darkened patches of skin; wart formation; skin lesions; acne; and increased risk of skin cancers. Chronic arsenic poisoning can also cause sudden constriction in arteries or veins, reducing blood flow; decreased nerve function; lung, liver, kidney and bladder, and other cancers.

Arsenic - Overview

Arsenic - Overview

Overview

Arsenic occurs naturally in the environment as an element of the earth's crust. Arsenic is combined with other elements such as oxygen, chlorine, and sulfur to form inorganic arsenic compounds. Exposure to higher-than-average levels of arsenic occurs mainly in workplaces, near or in hazardous waste sites, and areas with high levels naturally occurring in soil, rocks, and water. Exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause death.