Rowan Services

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Meeting the OSHA Cr⁶⁺ PEL

OSHA is under court order to issue a new, much more stringent PEL (permissible exposure limit) for Cr⁶⁺ by January 18, 2006.  OSHA has proposed a PEL of 1mgm m^-3 Cr⁶⁺ 8 hour time weighted average, down from 52 mgm m^-3 Cr⁶⁺.  This large proposed change has led to a great deal of debate and concern over the effect of such a low limit on a broad range of industries.  Reactions to the proposed limits are variable, with some predicting the demise of large numbers of plating and metal finishing shops, while some metal finishing shops have declared themselves to be already in compliance with the proposed limit without excessive cost and difficulty.  In addition to affecting metal finishing operations this rule will affect many different industries and processes, including:

• Hard and decorative chrome plating operations that use Cr⁶⁺ baths

• Chromic acid anodizing

• Chromate conversion

  • Zinc plating (used on products, fasteners, galvanized sheet steel, etc.)

  • Aluminum and magnesium components

• Chromated pigments, paints, paint primers, bonding primers, sealers

• Welding of stainless steel

  • Shipbuilding

  • Chemical plants

• Catalyst manufacture

• Cement manufacture

• Overhaul, corrosion control, repainting and paint touch-up on equipment that uses any chromated finishes

  • Aircraft

  • Zinc plated machinery and equipment

  • Ships

Rowan can help you understand how the rules will affect your business and what is the best option for meeting them.

Does your existing process either use or produce hexavalent chrome?

We can evaluate your existing operations to determine whether you are using processes likely to run afoul of the rules.

Your operations can be measured to determine if workers are exceeding the limits.

Are there ways to meet the regulations through controls on the existing process or through the use of personal protective equipment (bunny suits)?

In some cases the most cost-effective answer will be to adopt control technology or supply workers with personal protective equipment.

Another alternative, of course, is to contract out work to other companies.

Is it more cost-effective to adopt a hex Cr-free technology, and if so which one?

There are many different options to choose from, and we can help you determine which makes the most sense and carries the lowest cost and risk for your business. 
Then we can help you put the best option into production.

Many companies who presently use chrome plating are adopting thermal spray technologies such as HVOF.  This is a very different technology from chrome plating.  We can help you choose the right equipment or the best vendor, specify the process and train your workforce.

Users of chromate conversion and other chromating treatments are considering trivalent alternatives but are concerned over whether they will provide enough protection.  We can help you choose the best chromate alternative, whether trivalent or one of the many other protection schemes.

In some cases an entirely different approach is warranted – moving to a composite, for example, changing to a stainless steel, using electroplated aluminum coatings, using a Zn or Al-filled polymer.  An assessment of your products and requirements will help you make the best choice.

Commercial Services

• Meeting the OSHA Cr6+ PEL

• Meeting the European Rules

• Services by Business Type

  • OEMs

  • OEM Suppliers

  • Material & Chemical Suppliers

  • Metal Finishers

  • Overhaul & Repair

  • Alternative Techs.

• Market Analysis

Government Services