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Chrome plating: symptoms, findings in the upper airways, and effects on lung function
Archives of Environmental Health
|November 1, 1983
Summary
Occupational exposure to chromic acid in chrome plating can cause nasal irritation and transient lung function decreases at levels above 2 micrograms/m³. Higher short-term exposures of 20 micrograms/m³ or more may lead to nasal septal ulceration and perforation.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Toxicology
Background:
- Chrome plating industry workers face potential exposure to chromic acid.
- Previous studies indicate respiratory and nasal effects from chromium exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of chromic acid exposure on respiratory symptoms, lung function, and nasal septum integrity in chrome plating workers.
- To establish exposure thresholds for observed health effects.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 100 chrome-exposed workers and 119 non-exposed controls.
- Utilized identical techniques for data collection and comparison.
- Assessed respiratory symptoms, lung function (spirometry), and nasal septum changes.
Main Results:
- Nasal irritation was frequent with daily average exposure >1 µg/m³.
- Nasal septal ulceration/perforation occurred in two-thirds of workers exposed to peak levels ≥20 µg/m³.
- Lung function showed transient decreases (0.2 L FVC/FEV1, 0.4 L/sec FMF) with daily average exposure ≥2 µg/m³.
Conclusions:
- An 8-hr mean exposure to chromic acid exceeding 2 µg/m³ may cause temporary lung function impairment.
- Short-term exposure to at least 20 µg/m³ is linked to nasal septal damage.
- Lower exposure levels did not result in significant adverse effects.