Hexavalent chromium, also referred to as "hex chrome" or "chrome 6," is used for aesthetics and protective plating purposes in a variety of industries. Employees work with hexavalent chromium in the automotive industry, with paints and pigments, and in the processing of certain metal products.
Automotive Applications
In the automotive industry, hexavalent chromium is used in electroplating applications on steel components. It tends to add an eye-catching, reflective sheen on metal surfaces while at the same time offering protection against corrosion.
Paint & Pigment Applications
Hexavalent chromium added to pigments, primers, paints and other coatings improves the product's stability. Similar to the corrosive protection it offers in electroplating steel, it also provides abrasion resistance in these applications.
Steel & Metalwork Applications
During the processing of stainless steel containing hexavalent chromium, including cutting, welding and brazing, it becomes airborne in fine particulates that may be inhaled by the metal worker.
Health Hazards
Concerns regarding the hazardous effects on health with its use have prompted many industries, especially in automotive and electronics, to work to reduce and eliminate the use of hexavalent chromium in their products. Prolonged exposure to hexavalent chromium is believed to increase lung cancer risks due to inhalation of particulates.
Precautionary Measures
When working with materials containing hexavalent chromium, employees should always use appropriate personal protective equipment, which would include eye protection, work gloves and a National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health-approved respirator.
Hexavalent Chromium Alternatives
In addition to proprietary coatings and platings available, general industry is gravitating toward nickel plating and zinc plating. While they don't offer as visually pleasing a finish nor the corrosion resistance of hexavalent chromium, these alternatives are safer for both workers and the environment.
