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Safety and Health Topics |
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| Cadmium |
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In
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Cadmium is an extremely toxic
metal commonly found in industrial workplaces, particularly where any ore is being
processed or smelted. Due to its low permissible exposure limit (PEL), overexposures
may occur even in situations
where trace quantities of cadmium are found in the parent ore or smelter dust. Cadmium is used extensively in electroplating, although the nature of the
operation does not generally lead to overexposures. Several deaths from acute exposure
have occurred among welders who have unsuspectingly welded on cadmium-containing alloys or
worked with silver solders. Cadmium is also found in some industrial paints and may represent a
hazard when sprayed. Operations involving removal of cadmium paints by scraping or
blasting may similarly pose a significant hazard. Cadmium is also present in the manufacture of some types of
batteries. Cadmium emits a characteristic brown
fume (CdO) upon heating, which is relatively non-irritating, and thus does not alarm the
exposed individual.
The following questions link to information relevant to
cadmium hazards in the workplace.
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What OSHA standards
apply?
Standards | Preambles to Final Rules | Federal Registers | More |
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What is cadmium and what are its
health effects?
Characteristics and Properties | Hazard Recognition | Health Effects |
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How is cadmium exposure in the
workplace evaluated?
Evaluation | Sampling and Analysis | Biological Standards |
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What are some examples of possible
solutions for workplace hazards?
Controls | Case Studies |
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What additional information is available?
Related Safety and Health Topics Pages | Training | Other Resources |
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