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Hexavalent Chromium Fume Levels in Welding

Hexavalent chromium, or Cr(VI), is a man-made metal compound that forms when naturally occurring chromium metal (Cr III) is heated with mineral bases. Dangerous levels of Cr(VI) can build up in several manufacturing processes, including welding.

  1. Exposure

    • Hexavalent chromium enters the body when people inhale air containing fumes or contaminated dust, or when people ingest contaminated food or water. Most exposures occur in metal manufacturing workers, and most of the research on the health risks has centered around the dangers of inhalation exposure.

    Levels

    • The September 2000 issue of "Environmental Health Perspectives" outlines information about Cr(VI) in the workplace. The maximum permissible level for Cr(VI) exposure, set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is 100 micrograms (ug) per cubic meter (m3) of air. In contrast, the recommended level for workplace air is 1 ug/m3. However, levels in stainless steel, alloy steel or arc welding can reach as high as 1500 ug/m3 in poorly ventilated spaces.

    Health Risks

    • Inhalation exposure of as little as 2 ug/m3 can cause nasal irritation, according to data cited in the September 2000 issue of "Environmental Health Perspectives." Prolonged exposure to high levels can cause nasal perforation, nasal cancer and lung cancer.

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