What is Chromium-6 and Why is it Dangerous to Workers and the Public?

Toxic Exposure

Hexavalent chromium, or chromium-6, is a cancer-causing chemical found in a wide variety of industrial and manufacturing applications including tech and aerospace. Like benzene, hexavalent chromium poses significant health risks when inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin.

Chromium-6 became widely known from the case involving Erin Brockovich in which groundwater contamination in a small California town caused severe health effects. The case was later adapted to the movie, “Erin Brockovich.”

The dangers of hexavalent chromium are well-documented. It is a potent carcinogen that has the ability to damage DNA, leading to mutations that can cause cancer. Long-term exposure to even small amounts can lead to lung cancer, respiratory issues, skin ulcers and other serious health problems.

At Boeing Corp.’s manufacturing facility in Everett, Washington, chromium hexavalent levels have been documented far higher than the limits imposed by OSHA. Workers at the plant have been diagnosed with serious health complications, including birth defects affecting their children.

The Dangers of Benzene

Like hexavalent chromium, benzene is a dangerous chemical that is widely used in products such as plastics, resins, lubricants, and pesticides, as well as gasoline and other petroleum-based fuels. Exposure to benzene primarily occurs through inhalation of fumes in work environments, including refineries, chemical plants and manufacturing facilities. Chronic exposure to benzene affects bone marrow and has been linked to leukemia and other blood disorders.

How Are Businesses Responsible for Chemical Safety?

Businesses that handle dangerous chemicals like hexavalent chromium and benzene bear significant responsibility to ensure the safety of workers, their families and the public. Companies are required by law to follow strict safety guidelines, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, to minimize exposure to these hazardous substances.

From providing proper ventilation to personal protective equipment (PPE) and training programs, businesses must take comprehensive steps to ensure that their workers are not exposed to harmful chemicals. For example, when dealing with hexavalent chromium, industries must enforce air-quality controls, conduct regular monitoring, and provide protective clothing to reduce the risks.

Companies also must take measures to prevent these chemicals from leaching into the environment. Improper disposal or accidental spills can contaminate soil and water supplies, posing long-term dangers to communities.

FAQs

  • What are the health risks associated with hexavalent chromium exposure? Hexavalent chromium can cause lung, nasal, and sinus cancers, particularly when inhaled in industrial settings. Prolonged exposure can also harm the skin, eyes, kidneys, and liver.
  • How can businesses protect workers from hexavalent chromium exposure? Businesses can protect workers by complying with OSHA regulations, implementing engineering controls, providing personal protective equipment, conducting regular medical surveillance, and training workers on safety protocols.It can also cause birth defects when damaged DNA is passed on to unborn children.
  • What industries commonly use hexavalent chromium and benzene? Hexavalent chromium is often used in metal finishing, electroplating, and the production of pigments. Benzene is used in industries involving plastics, resins, and chemicals, such as refineries and manufacturing plants.

How We Help Victims of Boeing Toxic Exposure 

Our birth defect litigation attorneys understand the pain that families face when coping with life-altering birth defects—and the frustration of knowing they could have been prevented. Our team has over 40 years of combined experience in birth defects litigation in cases involving semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, pesticides, and energy production. We have the resources and experience to fight on behalf of our clients against corporations like Boeing, which put them in danger. Contact us to see how we can help you and your family receive justice for birth defects.