Hazards/Symptoms of RCRA 8 Metals: Chromium
Posted on Fri, Apr 29, 2011 @ 09:05 AM
by Andy Joy, Life Sciences Account Manager
Almost half-way through our series of RCRA 8 Metals!
Next on the list is Chromium. Chromium, Cr, is a stainless-steel gray hard metal that has a high polish and melting point. It doesn’t have any odor, or taste, and malleable. Louis Nicolas Vauquelin discovered Chromium in the mineral called crocoite – or most commonly known as lead chromate – in 1797.
One of the most hazardous forms of chromium is “hexavalent chromium” – (Cr(VI)). Hexavalent chromium compounds are man-made and widely used in many different industries. They include, but no limited too: pigments in paints, inks, plastics; anti-corrosive agents to primers and surface coatings; fumes from welding stainless steel; impurities in portland cement.
Breathing in high levels of Cr(VI) can cause irritation to the 
nose and throat. Symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, itching, and a burning sensation – almost like a bad cold. However, prolonged exposure can cause sores to develop in the nose and result in nosebleeds. If the damage is severe enough, the nasal septum will develop a hole in it.
One can also develop an allergic skin reaction, called allergic contact dermatitis – red, itchy rash that becomes crusty and thickened with prolonged exposure.