Occupational Diseases: Building Trade Unions Reach Hexavalent Chromium Agreement

The Building and Construction Trades Department, the AFL-CIO, and two labor unions have settled a lawsuit against the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to better protect workers from hexavalent chromium. Hexavalent chromium is a toxic chemical that is used in portland cement, which is often used in construction. Under the new terms, OSHA will be required to inspect construction sites for safety procedures used to help prevent hexavalent chromium exposure.

Building Trade Unions Reach Agreement With OSHA On Hexavalent Chromium Lawsuit

Under the agreement, OSHA compliance officers will evaluate whether employers who use portland cement are complying with the standards that require that they provide proper washing facilities and supplies, personal protective equipment, information on the hazards of handling dangerous materials, and that they maintain proper injury and illness records. Effects of hexavalent chromium exposure have been well documented. Very small amounts of hexavalent chromium can cause exposed workers to end up with contact dermatitis, a skin disease that is so severe that those who have it often no longer can work with cement. Prolonged exposure can lead to severe caustic burns, require skin grafts, or even limb amputation. "Ultimately, the real winners are the workers because they will have the level of protection on the job that the regulations were meant to secure almost 40 years ago," said Edward C. Sullivan, the president of the
Building and Construction Trades Department, AFL-CIO.