Cadmium
Cadmium
Cadmium is a soft metal that is resistant to corrosion, ductile, highly toxic, and not flammable. The main source of cadmium is the burning of fossil fuels (oil, coal, and incineration of municipal waste). Cadmium is, however, used in many type of manufacturing and construction businesses (smelting, recycling of electronics, plastics, battery manufacturing companies, etc.). Landfill operators and waste collector employees can be exposed to cadmium. Exposure can occur by breathing in dust/fumes, mist, or contact with skin or food. According to OSHA, cadmium exposure can cause very serious health problems. These health problems can include those involving the cardiovascular and neurological systems. OSHA requires cadmium safety training for all associated employees. Workplaces can eliminate or substitute cadmium with less toxic materials. Conducting engineering, administration, or work-practice controls, using required PPE, and proper cadmium safety training could eliminate or reduce the health hazards posed by cadmium exposure.
- Protection Includes:
- Isolation of the source and ventilation systems to minimize cadmium exposure.
- Replacing cadmium with less toxic materials.
- Limiting the amount of time of employee exposure.
- Wearing proper OSHA required PPE (respirator, protective clothing).
- Explaining safety and protection information of cadmium to employees.
- Maintaining personal hygiene and safe work practices.
- Following:
- Housekeeping procedures.
- Emergency procedures.
- A copy of OSHA’s cadmium standard must be available to all employees. This includes:
- Use of PPE and training (when, how, maintenance, etc.).
- Measures employees can take to protect themselves.
- Written compliance program to if cadmium exposure is at or above PEL control.
- Written compliance program must be reviewed and updated.
