NIOSH evaluated chromate-paint removal by abrasive blasting and recommends containment and HEPA-filtered exhaust because paint residue and dust can contain hexavalent chromium.
Source: CDC/NIOSH: Engineering Controls — Control of Hexavalent Chromium Exposures ↗Dust entry
Chromate-paint removal dust
Dust and residue generated when abrasive blasting removes chromate-containing coatings from steel structures.
Airborne form
dust
The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.
Health effects
hexavalent-chromium exposurerespiratory irritationlung-cancer concernskin sensitisation and dermatitis
Evidence
Controls
- ventilated containment
- HEPA-filtered exhaust
- wet methods where appropriate
- decontamination
- exposure monitoring
- appropriate respiratory protection