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Chromium VI

  • 17-04-2009 8:59pm
    #1
    Flesh Gorden
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,301 ✭✭✭


    Not sure whether to ask hear or in Biology and Medicine

    Is it possible to get tested for blood levels of Chromium VI?



    Reason I'm asking is where I work I have to re-bag ready mix concrete - thing is Chromium VI is used as the main catalyst

    What makes me concerned is the dust is so fine it stays in the air for around 5 minutes; even with a dust mask I don't feel that safe.


    I've emailed the manufacturer to find out how much Chromium is present but don't expect to hear anything back


    Thanx


Comments

  • #2
    sunnyjim
    Closed Accounts Posts: 1,302 ✭✭✭sunnyjim


    From a H&S point of view, if there's any chance of you inhaling any particulate matter that's floating in the air, it should be limited to a certain time or you should have breathing protection. Carcinogen or not, it's still damaging.

    Yeah, it's possible alright, go talk to a doctor. You might have to send your sample abroad - so it might be pricey.


  • #3
    Kevster
    Closed Accounts Posts: 2,980 ✭✭✭Kevster


    If you're worried about any chemical, you should consult it's relevant MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and obviously consult your doctor if (like sunnyjim has said). I think that under the Safety, Health, & Welfare at Work Act, all organisations are required to have an MSDS available for each chemical that they use.

    Coincidentally, I just did my honours degree thesis/project on the effects of Chromium VI in a type of worm.


  • #4
    Jokesetal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 117 ✭✭Jokesetal


    Cr(VI) levels in cement are low, so the bigger problem would be particulate inhalation, leading to long term lung damage.
    If you wanted to check it then the GP is your best route forward.
    You'll have difficulty finding anyone local to test it, as it will probably lead to litigation. But you could look at the inab.ie website for a list of potential labs:
    http://www.inab.ie/directoryofaccreditedbodies/laboratoryaccreditationmedicaltesting/


  • #5
    Mucco
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 717 ✭✭✭Mucco


    I'd be very surprised if the concentrations are high enough to cause damage. Cr(VI) is known to be highly toxic, and therefore carefully controlled. You should check the occupational exposure limits (OEL) for
    COSHH is the UK control of substances hazardous to health:
    http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2005/e05006.htm
    They seem to be mostly concerned with wet cement and dermititis though.

    I would make sure the dust mask you have fits properly and is suitable to block this type of dust - I see many workmen with ill-fitting masks or the wrong type of mask for the hazard. There's a large document here:
    http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/fittesting.pdf probably a bit over the top for your situation.


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