Chromium-6: inventories, investigations, and final inspections
Chromium-6 has been used for decades in the paint and steel industries. It provides extremely durable paint and lacquer layers and is rust resistant. Unfortunately, chromium-6 also poses a health risk when it is released during processing. Therefore, it is important to first check if you are dealing with chromium-6 before carrying out any work. We assist you with all your chromium-6 issues, from inventory or investigation to final inspection.
Chromium-6 is one of the heavy metals and one of the more complex hazardous substances. Chromium-6 always binds to another substance (e.g., zinc), making it difficult to identify, and it can be present in multiple layers of a coating. Chromium-6 compounds can be found in:
• Paint and primer
• Chrome-plated metal or plastic surfaces
• Stainless steel materials
• Treated wood
• Leather
• Cement
• Other chromium compounds (chromium-3)
Chromium-6 in the Installation Industry
The installation industry is particularly affected by chromium-6. Grinding, drilling, sanding, welding, or soldering pipes, cable trays, bolts, and other chromium-6 coated objects release dust that can contain chromium-6. Without protective measures, this dust can enter the body through the nose, mouth, or skin, and prolonged exposure can be harmful to health.
Chromium-6 Inventory
Do you want to quickly determine if you are dealing with chromium-6 coatings? We have extensive experience in the investigation and analysis of chromium-6 and other heavy metals. Our specialists are available to conduct a chromium-6 inventory.
Chromium-6 Quick Test
With our handheld XRF (HXRF), we can use X-ray fluorescence to detect the presence of chromium. SGS Search Laboratorium B.V. is accredited for this as recorded in L238 (testing). If chromium is present, we conduct an on-site special quick test to determine if it is chromium-6. You can then take the necessary control measures before starting work.
Chromium-6 in Paint Samples
For verification, we can take paint samples for examination in our chromium-6 laboratory. There, we can specifically measure the amount of chromium-6 in the paint layers, providing you with more targeted advice. The SGS laboratory in ’s-Gravenpolder is accredited for chromium-6 testing in paint samples as recorded in Belac-005 (testing).
Final Inspection for Chromium-6
We also offer final inspections. A final inspection determines whether the site is safe to enter without personal protective equipment after chromium-6 remediation. We do this through visual inspection, air measurements, and/or wipe samples in accordance with NIOSH 7605. This ensures that the location is safe for people and the environment.
Other Heavy Metals
Chromium-6 is not the only hazardous heavy metal. We can also check for the presence of other heavy metals such as arsenic, zinc, lead, cobalt, nickel, and cadmium. We do this on-site with our HXRF method or by analyzing paint samples in our laboratory.
