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Degree

MS, University of Cincinnati, Medicine : Industrial Hygiene (Environmental Health), 2007.

Abstract

Exposure to hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) can occur when welding on stainless steel, and possibly carbon steel. The objective of this study was to evaluate the exposure of Cr(VI) fumes to welders at two chemical facilities, determine if the samples were within the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and identify determinants of exposure. The results were compared to the OSHA permissible exposure level (PEL) of 5 µg/m3 and the action level (AL) of 2.5 µg/m3. At Plant 1 the levels of Cr(VI) ranged from 2.5 – 6.4 µg/m3 , exceeding the OSHA AL and PEL. The results from Plant 2 were below the AL, with results ranging from 0.049 – 0.061 µg/m3. A priori determinants of exposure were not related to the measurements. Suggestions are made to refine data collection in future studies.

Keywords

Hexavalent Chromium; Cr(VI); Welding

Advisor

Dr. Carol Rice

Pages

51p.

Document number: ucin1182717517
Permalink: http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1182717517

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