Hexavalent Chromium: What’s the Issue?
Chromium is a naturally occurring metal that can be found in the environment in the form of rocks, plants, animals, and volcanic dust. It is essential for a healthy lifestyle. However, when exposed to the oxidation process, chromium can become something more lethal to the environment and to the body: Hexavalent Chromium, also known as Chromium VI (Cr-6).
Hexavalent Chromium occurs after Chromium has been exposed to high temperatures like the ones seen in welding, chemical reactions in industrial processes, improper disposal at waste sites, and by natural erosion of chromium deposits. It’s popularly used to prevent corrosion due to it’s distinct ability to produce a thin oxide layer making it impermeable. As an anti-corrosive agent, it’s commonly added to paints, inks, plastics, primers, chrome plating and more.
This hazardous form of Chromium is toxic to the people who work with or even around Chromium. So toxic that the World Health Organization (WHO), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Department of Human Health Services (DHS) have labeled Hexavalent Chromium a human carcinogen.
Health Risks of Exposure
It’s risks are prevalent due to the fact that Hexavalent Chromium is odorless, tasteless, and can be found in drinking water. This ability to be unseen puts all who use it at risk of negative health impacts including:
- Lung cancer
- Occupational asthma
- Respiratory irritation
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
While breathing small amounts may not irritate be an irritant for all, prolonged exposure can lead to severe health issues:
Respiratory Issues: Inhalation can cause irritation in the nose and throat, leading to symptoms like sneezing and coughing. Long-term exposure may even result in lung cancer.
Skin Reactions: Handling materials containing hexavalent chromium can lead to allergic reactions like contact dermatitis, causing red, itchy rashes. It can also cause non-allergic skin irritation and ulcers.
Other Effects: High concentrations can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and even lead to serious damage, including nasal perforation.
Safety Measures in the Workplace
To combat these health risks, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established standards to protect workers:
- Exposure Limits: Employers must limit exposure to 5 micrograms per cubic meter of air over an 8-hour shift.
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring is required for workplaces where exposure may exceed safety levels.
- Protective Gear: Employers must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to guard against skin and eye contact.
- Hygiene Practices: Good personal hygiene and housekeeping are essential to minimize exposure.
- Medical Examinations: Regular health check-ups are mandated for employees exposed to hexavalent chromium.
States likes California have implemented standards for Chromium VI in drinking water, requiring public water systems to monitor sources using EPA method 218.6 and/ or 218.7. In response to the Environmental Working Group study released on December 20, 2010, EPA developed temporary guidance for utilities on monitoring hexavalent chromium in water supplies, suggesting monitoring of both entry points and distribution systems. Currently the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) regulates total chromium at a level of 100 ug/L, except for California, there is no regulation specific to hexavalent chromium.
The Vitality of Testing
Awareness and proper management of hexavalent chromium are crucial for protecting both workers and the environment. By understanding its sources, health risks, and safety measures, we can work towards a safer and healthier future.
15 years of experience and 50,000 samples analyzed, trust Eurofins to provide the most comprehensive results for Hexavalent Chromium in your workplace. We’re here to support all your testing efforts. Contact Eurofins today if you have regulation questions, testing concerns, or anything else.
To learn more about the regulatory side, click here.