Chromium-PotentialDesignatedChemical.pdfVIP

Chromium Potential Designated Chemical March 27, 2014 Meeting of Scientific Guidance Panel (SGP) Biomonitoring California1 Chromium (Cr) is an element that occurs in nature. The two environmentally relevant forms of chromium are trivalent chromium (Cr(III)) and hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)). Cr(III) is considered an essential nutrient. Cr(VI) is the toxic form. The current document provides a brief overview of information relevant to the Scientific Guidance Panel’s consideration of chromium as a potential designated chemical. The primary focus of this document is on Cr(VI). There is an extensive body of literature on Cr(VI) ( ATSDR, 2012). The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) developed Reference Exposure Levels (OEHHA, 2001) and a Public Health Goal (OEHHA, 2011) for Cr(VI). OEHHA (2009a) also reviewed the developmental and reproductive toxicity of Cr(VI). If the Scientific Guidance Panel recommends adding chromium to the list of designated chemicals for Biomonitoring California, this listing would cover any form of chromium. Adding chromium to the list of designated chemicals would mean that Biomonitoring California could consider it for measurement in Program studies. The Program would determine the most appropriate methods for biomonitoring chromium. Exposure or potential exposure to the public or specific subgroups: This section summarizes information on use, import/production volume, and exposure to Cr(VI) via air, water or other sources. Regulatory status for Cr(VI) in air and water and related reference values are also provided. Uses and import/production volume Chromium is used to manufacture stainless steel and nonferrous metal alloys (ATSDR, 2012). Adding chromium to alloys increases hardness and improves resistance to corrosion. Chromium compounds are used in