Hexavalent Chromium
Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is one of the valence states of chromium and it is usually produced by an industrial process.
Hexavalent Chromium Safety
Cr(VI) can cause cancer and it also targets the respiratory system, kidneys, liver, skin, and eyes. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1026 and 1926.1126, Chromium (VI) standard, establishes a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) for Cr(VI) of an average of 5 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) over an 8-hour work shift.
Here's how Cr(VI) is used in industrial applications:
- Chromium metal is added to alloy steel to make it harder and corrosion resistant. A major source of worker exposure to Cr(VI) occurs during "hot work" such as welding on stainless steel and other alloy steels containing chromium metal.
- Cr(VI) compounds may be used as pigments in dyes, paints, inks, and plastics. It also may be used as an anticorrosive agent added to paints, primers, and other surface coatings.
- The Cr(VI) compound chromic acid is used to electroplate chromium onto metal parts to provide a decorative or protective coating.
Requirements to protect workers from Cr(VI) exposure are addressed in specific OSHA hexavalent chromium standards covering:
- general industry (1910.1026),
- shipyards (1915.1026), and
- construction (1926.1126).
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
9-1. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1026 and 1926.1126, Chromium (VI) standard, establishes a PEL for Cr(VI) of an average of _____.
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