Polishing Stainless steel

[joaorosa80]

Hi to all,
Does anyone have a figure of what the health implications of polishing stainless steel regarding his constituents (Chromium).
Type of mask to be selected and why?

Kind regards, Joao

[Andyblue]

Can't directly help but just had a stainless steel garden feature delivered - the artist said the problems was with small iron oxide dust setting on the SS and leaving "rust" type marks - so indication the size of some of the dust particles. But, they said the SS polished debris was even smaller. They use some serious BA, extractors, filters etc for that very reason. No direct help but if their system is anything to go by, they take the issue very seriously.

[joaorosa80]

Hi again,
Did someone else add this issue?

Kind regards, Joao

[quality_somerset]

Hi Joao

Couple of hse booklets you may useful:

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg346.pdf

http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg351.pdf

As to the type of mask that will depend on a few factors:

1) Whether you are creating dust or fume

2) The amount of dust or fume you are creating

3) The length of time you would need your employee to wear the mask for.

Ideally you will get some sampling done which will enable your approach to be tailored. You may also wish to organise some occupational health checks if your company does not offer this service.

Regards
QS

[joaorosa80]

Hi,
Thank you for appointing the booklets.
I subscribe yours observations, however and before the bills, I need to understand why so common product that has been polished since ever, I didn't find any concern about this fact.

Thxs

[joaorosa80]

According with the British Stainless Steel Association:


"If you are concerned about the possible harmful effects of hexavalent chromium – don’t be – unless you plan to use powerful oxidizing agents while you grind and polish stainless steel.

See link below.
https://www.bssa.org.uk/topics.php?article=112"