Hexavalent Chromium (Chromium, Hexavalent)
Chromium VI compounds are found in a variety of Washington’s work places; ranging from chrome plating to construction. Materials that contain these compounds include:
- mist from plating solutions of chromic acid.
- primers and paints containing chromates.
- fume released during welding of stainless steel.
- chromate pigments in dyes, inks, and plastics.
- fume released during smelting of ferrochromium ores.
- portland cement.
Without preventive measures, workers exposed to materials containing chromium VI are put at risk for serious health consequences ranging from skin irritation to lung cancer.
The information and resources provided on this topic page can help keep employees safe and working.
Rules
General Rules
- Hexavalent Chromium (WAC 296-62-08003)
Policies
Chromium VI (WRD 12.80)- Hexavalent Chromium NEP (WRD 12.90)
Hazard Alerts, Bulletins & Notices
Training Materials
Videos
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Other Resources
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"Links" to other information sources are provided as a courtesy, but we cannot vouch for or take responsibility for information contained beyond files administered by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Links from this page do not represent or imply the endorsement of commercial products by the State of Washington, Labor and Industries, or by departmental staff. For more information, read L&I's Intended Usage policy.
- Hexavalent Chromium Exposure Control (HEXChEC): Best Practices for Welders (online video, workbook, and poster)
- Concrete and PPE use (Toolbox Talk)
- Emergency Washing Workshop
- Hazard Alert: Thermal Metal Spraying
- Health Effects of Hexavalent Chromium - Factsheet
- Hexavalent Chromium (OSHA)
- Hexavalent Chromium in the Maritime Industry (Power Point)
- Hexavalent Chromium Training Kit
- Preventing Skin Problems from Working with Portland Cement (OSHA)
- Small Business Compliance Guide (OSHA Guide)
- Worker severely burned by wet concrete (Injury Narrative)
Related Topics
- Abrasive Blasting
- Air contaminants (General)
- Dip Tanks
- Lead
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Respiratory Protection
- Spray Finishing
- Welding, Cutting and Brazing
How can I get help from L&I?
- To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/about.asp for no charge technical assistance.
- For help with controlling your claims costs, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Basics/Assistance/Consultation/riskmanagement.asp for a no charge risk management consultation.
- Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
- Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
- For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
