Industrial Hygiene – Hexavalent Chromium

Chromium VI

OSHA has lowered the Permissible Exposure Level for Chromium VI to 5 micrograms per cubic meters. Cr(VI) compounds are a group of chemical substances that contain the metallic element chromium in its positive-6 valence (hexavalent) state. Occupational exposures to Cr(VI) occur during the production of stainless steel, chromate chemicals, and chromate pigments. Cr(VI) exposures also occur during other work activities such as stainless steel welding, thermal cutting, chrome plating, painting, and coating processes.

Since OSHA lowered the PEL for Hexavalent Chromium in 2008, companies that conduct chrome plating, stainless steel welding, or use Chromate based have had to comply. For those who cannot meet this exposure standard, companies must comply with expensive and time consuming provisions of OSHA 1910.1026. OccuSafe can help companies lower exposures through administrative and engineering controls, better work procedures, and training, and direct them on how to meet the requirements of he Hexavalent Chromium Standard.Chemical Exposure Testing and Analysis