Hexavalent Chromium
Cr(VI) is a recognized human carcinogen that can impact industrial workers in many different occupations. It is present in many different compounds that have a variety of industrial applications, e.g. chromate pigments in dyes, paints, inks, and plastics; chromates added as anticorrosive agents to coatings, and chromic acid electroplated onto metal parts. Cr(VI) can also be formed when performing “hot work” such as welding on stainless steel, melting chromium metal, or heating refractory bricks in kilns. In these situations, the chromium is not originally hexavalent, but the high temperatures involved in the process result in oxidation that converts the chromium to a hexavalent state.
Documentation
Documenting occupant exposure to Hexavalent Chromium is required under OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1026 Chromium (VI). IEA can provide hexavalent chromium sampling during welding and other activities with potential exposure to meet the exposure determination requirements of OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1026 Chromium (VI). IEA compares sample results to the OSHA Action Level and PEL, and provides guidance on required actions based on the results.