Health
Hexavalent chromium
A toxic form of chromium released when welding or cutting stainless steel and chrome-coated metal, and present in some paints and coatings. 29 CFR 1926.1126 sets a permissible exposure limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter as an 8-hour average.
Where it shows up
- Welding and cutting stainless steel
- Removing chromate paint
- Thermal cutting of chrome-plated parts
Controls, most effective first
Work down the list. Rely on PPE only for the risk the controls above it cannot remove.
| Level | Control |
|---|---|
| Engineering | Local exhaust ventilation or fume extractors at the arc |
| Lower-chromium consumables where the specification allows | |
| Administrative | Exposure assessment for welding tasks |
| Wash before eating and keep food out of the work area | |
| PPE | Respirator based on the exposure assessment |
| Gloves and long sleeves to keep it off skin |
PPE to list on the JHA
Respirator1926.103Welding helmet, jacket, and gloves1926.102Work gloves
OSHA standards
| Citation | Title |
|---|---|
| 29 CFR 1926.1126 | Chromium (VI) |
Federal OSHA construction standards. State plans can be stricter, and owners or contracts can add requirements. This page is general information. Check the full standard for your work.