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Chromate Compendium

Studies, analyses and warnings

The documents are aimed at decision-makers in industry and public authorities, and at everyone who wants not only better occupational and environmental protection but also to apply it.

Basis

Cr6.info

The compendium is based on the analysis “The Overlooked Ingredient” by Markus Sommer, The Chromate Expert. It is published at www.cr6.info in seven editions (German, Switzerland, English, USA, French, Dutch, Polish), each in three levels as expert analysis, summary and overview; the common part is identical in all editions, the chapter on national regulations differs.

Cr6.info also contains two regulatory analyses: on the list of exposed workers (exposure register) and on the chromium(VI) quick test and so-called neutralisation, which is chemically a reduction.

In addition, Cr6.info offers the interactive chromium(VI) risk assessment for insulation removal as an app, in eleven steps from the activity to the operating instruction and documentation.

Cr6.info, the knowledge portal

The Overlooked Ingredient, expert analysisRegulatory analysis: exposure registerRegulatory analysis: quick test and neutralisationInteractive risk assessment (app)

Major study on chromates in the workplace

The English and Dutch editions are machine-translated.

Studies and evaluations

Main study “Inhalable dust and total dust”

Comprehensive study of chromium(VI) exposure during work with high-temperature insulation containing alkali and/or alkaline earth metals. Measurements in air and dust document limit value exceedances and analyse carry-over risks; with technical, organisational and personal protective measures, regulatory assessments and recommendations for substitution.

Side study “Insulation cassettes”

Chromium(VI) contamination in insulation cassettes on gas engines. Chromium-containing metal housings combined with calcium-containing insulation form chromates; areas “open to oxygen” where fibres are exposed are particularly hazardous.

Follow-up study “Handling of insulation material”

Chromium(VI) exposure when handling used insulation materials. Normal maintenance work releases chromates and limit values are exceeded; carry-over via dust deposits, work clothing and air currents also endangers people not involved.

Observations from practice

Measurements in power plants, CHP plants and industrial facilities show that chromates are regularly released and occupational exposure limits exceeded.

Decision aid “Preparing a risk assessment”

On 54 pages, all known decision bases for the risk assessment of work with carcinogenic, skin-absorbable and environmentally hazardous chromium(VI) compounds, assessed under German rules. Short version.

Analyses and reports

01

CHP measurements

In engine compartments with calcium-containing insulation, chromium(VI) limit values were exceeded by 210 to 290 per cent.

02

The minimisation requirement

EU law requires strict minimisation of chromium(VI) exposure. The STOP principle applies: substitution before technical, organisational and personal measures.

03

The substitution assessment

Case study on substituting insulation materials containing alkali and alkaline earth metals to prevent chromium(VI) formation.

04

Influence of alkalis on stainless steel

How such insulation destabilises the passive layer of stainless steel hot parts at up to 600 °C.

05

Psychology (bias)

Cognitive dissonance, status quo bias and confirmation bias as barriers to minimising chromium(VI) risks.

06

Chromates and health

Inhalation and skin contact can cause DNA damage, lung cancer, COPD and neurological disorders.

07

Shortcomings of the assessment

Case study on shortcomings in assessing chromate formation by calcium-containing insulation systems.

Working aids