Effects of Hexavalent Chromium

The compounds of the element chromium which contain chromium in its oxidation state of +6, are often referred to as hexavalent chromium. Some common compounds are chromium trioxide, sodium dichromate and a large number of other chromate and dichromate salts. Among all these compounds, chromium trioxide is the primary cause of an environmental issue which is widely known as "hexavalent chromium". Chromium trioxide can be described as an anhydride of chromic acid. Every year, several tons of chromium trioxide are produced for the purpose of various important industrial uses. However, it is a very harmful chemical compound and possesses carcinogenic properties.

How does Hexavalent Chromium Enter our Body?

Hexavalent chromium enters the human body mainly through inhalation in the form of dust, fume or mist. The workers of those industries in which this form of chromium is used, are prone to its exposure. They are mainly exposed to hexavalent chromium in any of the following ways:

• During the production of chemicals like chromate pigments, chromic acid.
• Working in the close proximity of chrome electroplating.
• While welding of stainless steel, chrome coated metals or chrome alloys.
• At the time of application or removal of paints with chromate content.

Symptoms of Hexavalent Chromium Exposure

Runny nose, coughing, sneezing, irritation and burning sensation in the throat owing to breathing in of high concentration hexavalent chromium. On prolonged exposure, perforation on the nasal septum (the wall between the nasal passages) can occur. Some people tend to become allergic to hexavalent chromium and can show signs of asthma, like wheezing and shortness of breath. Hexavalent chromium can come in direct contact with the skin on those people whose work involves direct handling of solids and liquids with hexavalent chromium content. As a result of the skin contact, swelling, itching, skin rashes and reddening of the skin can be seen.

How can Hexavalent Chromium Damage our Health?

The extent of damage that hexavalent chromium can cause to a person's health depends upon the amount of time that person is exposed to it and the concentration level of the chemical. It can lead to lung cancer in those who breathe airborne hexavalent chromium. An increased level of hexavalent chromium in the respiratory tract can cause extensive damage to the nose, throat and lungs. If the eyes are exposed to hexavalent chromium in a concentrated form, it can cause some severe harm. This happens particularly to those people who are involved with various types of welding work. In case there is direct contact of hexavalent compounds with the skin, a non-allergic skin reaction called allergic contact dermatitis can be observed, and formation of chrome ulcers are also possible. These sores take a long time to heal up and often leave behind permanent scars.

Taking necessary safety measures is the only way that these employees can be protected from the hazardous effects of hexavalent chromium. They should be provided with adequate clothing and equipment that can minimize the exposure and the resulting damage to their health. They should undergo regular medical check-ups to detect the severity of the health problem and be administered proper treatment on time.