The US-American Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently
published Hexavalent Chromium, a booklet outlining industry requirements for
hexavalent chromium standards. Workers exposed to this toxic chemical can
develop lung cancer and damage to the nose, throat and respiratory system.

Inhaling the chemical's fumes can cause allergic reactions or asthmatic
symptoms, such as wheezing and shortness of breath. Hexavalent chromium is used
in pigments, metal finishing, wood preservatives and fungicides. Workers may
also be exposed to hexavalent chromium fumes generated during welding of
chromium metal alloys.

"Hexavalent chromium is a powerful lung carcinogen and exposure to this
chemical must be minimized," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA David
Michaels. "OSHA provides guidance on its standards to ensure that employers and
workers know the best ways to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses."

The booklet explains OSHA's hexavalent chromium standards in a reader-friendly
format and is a companion document to the Small Entity Compliance Guide for the
Hexavalent Chromium Standards published in 2006. Requirements for exposure
limits, exposure monitoring and determination, protective work clothing and
equipment, medical surveillance, communication of hexavalent chromium hazards
and recordkeeping are described.

More info

AplusA-online.de - Source: U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration