The Dangers of Chromium Hexavalent

Chromium hexavalent is a compound of the element chromium. It is found naturally in nature and it gained attention and infamous notoriety as being the substance found in the drinking water in the California town of Hinkley. It was Erin Brockovich who championed the cause to eradicate the substance from the town's water supply.

What is Chromium Hexavalent?

Chromium hexavalent (element symbol: Cr(VI)) is a compound which contains chromium in an oxidation state of +6. It is commonly found in pigments used in photography, dyes, paints, inks, plastics and in pyrotechnics. It also features prominently in production of stainless steel, textiles, wood preservation and leather tanning. Recently, as the dangers of chromium hexavalent have come to surface, newer alternatives have been taking its place in a number of applications.

How am I Exposed to Chromium Hexavalent?

The most common method for being exposed to chromium hexavalent is through inhalation. This typically occurs in an occupational setting. Some of the occupations that carry with them a higher chance for chromium hexavalent exposure include those professions that use chromate-containing pigments, paints and chrome-plating baths. Metalworking workers are also at risk when cutting, grinding or welding metals like stainless steel, which contains high levels of chromium.

What are the Symptoms of Chromium Hexavalent Exposure?

Exposure to chromium hexavalent, over a prolonged period of time can have many detrimental health effects. If it comes into contact with the eyes and skin, chromium hexavalent can cause irritation and even permanent damage if the exposure is long enough. If the compound comes into contact with a cut or laceration on the skin, it could cause chrome ulcers. Chrome ulcers are small crusted sores that feature a rounded border. They take a long time to heal and usually leave a noticeable scar.

If it is inhaled, chromium hexavalent can cause an irritated nose, throat and lungs. If inhaled long enough, it can result in damage to the mucous membranes, nosebleeds, cause ulcers and even perforate the septum. In Russia, exposure to chromium hexavalent is blamed for a wide number of premature senility cases. Studies have also proven that inhalation of chromium hexavalent can increase the chances of developing lung cancer.

Interestingly enough, chromium hexavalent is extremely reactive with vitamin C. When exposure is coupled with vitamin C in the body, it can result in severe damage to the individual's DNA inside the lung's cells. However, outside of the cells, vitamin C actually serves to protect against the damage to the cells.

What are the Acceptable Exposure Limits for Chromium Hexavalent?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set limits on what they feel is acceptable exposure levels for a variety of occupations. These include:

• 0.005 mg/m³ or 5 micrograms/m³ TWA for General Industry
• 0.005 mg/m³ or 5 micrograms/m³ TWA for the Construction Industry
• 0.005 mg/m³ or 5 micrograms/m³ TWA for the Maritime Industry

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has deemed 0.001 mg Cr(VI)/m³ 10-hr TWA to be the recommended exposure limit. They have also targeted exposures of 15 mg/m³ as the level where it is immediately dangerous to life or health.

What is Being Done to Help Limit Exposure to Chromium Hexavalent?

Both OSHA and NIOSH have published a number of books and pamphlets to help educate employers as to the dangers of exposure to chromium hexavalent. Some of the information that is highly recommended includes:

• Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Hexavalent Chromium Standards - OSHA Publication 3320
• Hexavalent Chromium - California Department of Health Services (CDHS)
• Reduction of Worker Exposure and Environmental Release of Welding Emissions - National Shipbuilding Research Program
• Hard Chrome Fume Suppressants and Control Technologies - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Besides following the acceptable exposure levels as indicated earlier, OSHA has also set new workplace standards that employers need to adhere to which include:

• Monitor employee exposure periodically every six months
• Provide protective clothing and equipment
• Provide good personal hygiene practices
• Provide respiratory protective equipment
• The employer has 30 days to make medical examinations available from the time of initial assignment

Read Dr. Group's Chemical & Heavy Metals Cleanse

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