- Standard Number:
OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.
May 5, 1988
MEMORANDUM FOR: THOMAS J. SHEPICH, Director
Directorate of Compliance Programs
THRU: RALPH YODAIKEN, M.D., M.P.H., Director
Office of Occupational Medicine
EDWARD BAIER, Director
Directorate of Technical Support
FROM: ANGELA PRESSON, M.D., M.P.H., Medical Officer
Office of Occupational Medicine
SUBJECT: Medical Examinations for Employees Exposed to Chromic Acid
The term "periodic examination[s]" in 29 CFR [1910.124(h)(4)] means on a yearly basis unless otherwise indicated. At any time when there is a chromic acid spill onto an employee's skin or saturation of clothing, a physician should be responsible for evaluating and monitoring the skin area where chromic acid made contact with the skin.
When no chromic acid contact with skin has occurred, at an exposure to an airborne concentration above .05 mg/cubic meter (the ACGIH TLV for hexavalent chromium) or greater employees should be periodically examined.