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The violations include spray booths containing
combustible floor lining, no air flow measuring
devices or fire extinguisher systems, exposure
to hexavalent chromium above the permissible
exposure limits, a lack of engineering controls
to reduce exposures and a lack of a medical
program for workers exposed to hexavalent
chromium, as well as a monitoring program for
workers exposed to hexavalent chromium.
The company also failed to ensure the use of
proper respiratory protection for workers while
painting; ensure there was a regulated area
where exposure to hexavalent chromium was above
the permissible exposure level; provide training
on the hazards of hexavalent chromium exposure;
provide storage areas separating street clothes
from contaminated clothing; and keep eating and
drinking areas free of hexavalent chromium.
Hexavalent chromium is used for hardenability
and corrosion resistance, the compounds are
genotoxic carcinogens. Chronic inhalation of
hexavalent chromium compounds increases the risk
of lung cancer. In addition, it targets the
respiratory system, kidneys, liver, skin and
eyes.
A major source of worker exposure to Hexavalent
chromium occurs during "hot work" such as
welding on stainless steel and other alloy
steels containing chromium metal. Hexavalent
chromium compounds may be used as pigments in
dyes, paints, inks, and plastics. It also may be
used as an anticorrosive agent added to paints,
primers, and other surface coatings. The
Hexavalent chromium compound chromic acid is
used to electroplate chromium onto metal parts
to provide a decorative or protective coating. |
