Hexavalent Chromium Hazard Recognition

from OSHA.gov

Workers in many different occupations are exposed to hexavalent chromium. Occupational exposures occur mainly among workers who handle pigments containing dry chromate, spray paints and coatings containing chromate, operate chrome plating baths, and weld or cut metals containing chromium, such as stainless steel. Stainless steel welding involves the greatest exposure to hexavalent chromium. The following references aid in recognizing hazards and health effects associated with hexavalent chromium.

Calcium chromate, chromium trioxide, lead chromate, strontium chromate, and zinc chromate are known human carcinogens. An increase in incidence of lung cancer has been observed among workers in industries that produce chromate and manufacture pigments containing chromate. An increased rate of lung cancer has also been reported among producers and consumers of pigment containing chromate. One study of chromium-nickel alloy foundry workers showed a statistically significant increase in lung cancers.

Hexavalent chromium is considered a potential lung carcinogen. Studies of workers in the chromate production, plating, and pigment industries consistently show increased rates of lung cancer.

Direct eye contact with chromic acid or chromate dusts can cause permanent eye damage.

Hexavalent chromium can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs. Repeated or prolonged exposure can damage the mucous membranes of the nasal passages and result in ulcers. In severe cases, exposure causes perforation of the septum (the wall separating the nasal passages). Acute exposures may cause perforation of the nasal septum within a week of exposure.

Prolonged skin contact can result in dermatitis and skin ulcers. Some workers develop an allergic sensitization to chromium. In sensitized workers, contact with even small amounts can cause a serious skin rash. Kidney damage has been linked to high dermal exposures.

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see also:

EPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Chromium EPA Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Chromium
Ambient water quality criteria for Chromium - Environmental Protection

Chromium Information from the NIH Chromium Information from the National Institute of Health
NIH: Chromium is a naturally-occurring element found in several forms.

News & Warnings Chromium News & Warnings: Hexavalent Chromium
Hexavalent Chromium water pollution & chromium land fill contamination News