Workplace Exposure

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists steps employers can take to help minimize the spread of flu.

Mercury can be found in a variety of products, including barometers, blood pressure measurers, batteries and some types of lightbulbs. The Illinois Department of Public Health states that workers can be exposed to mercury through breathing vapors, direct skin contact, or by eating food or drinking water contaminated with mercury.

Using machines to cut, smooth or shape wood materials can expose workers to wood dust. According to Oregon OSHA, wood dust is classified as a hazardous chemical because wood can contain chemical contaminants such as herbicides and pesticides, as well as naturally occurring molds and fungi.

If mold of any type is discovered in a workplace, it is a potential health risk to employees and should be removed as soon as possible.

According to NIOSH, workers can be exposed to lead through fumes (produced when metal is being heated or soldered) or dust (produced when metal is being cut or when lead paint is sanded or removed with a heat gun).

Fibrous glass is a synthetic mineral fiber made from glass. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, two types exist: continuous filament glass and glass wool.

Cadmium is a soft, malleable metal that, according to OSHA, can cause serious health problems for workers exposed to it. When using this metal, proper personal protective equipment must be worn because cadmium is highly toxic.

Many workers use cleaning products every day as part of their job responsibilities. Common cleaning products may seem harmless, but they can lead to serious health problems if mishandled.

First responders are at risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as hepatitis B and C and HIV, NIOSH warns. Exposure can occur by way of needlesticks; contact with contaminated sharp objects; or eye, mouth, nose or broken skin contact with blood or other potentially infectious bodily fluids.

Tungsten carbide is a metal alloy commonly used in manufacturing because of its hardness and resistance to wear and high temperatures. According to the New Jersey Department of Health’s Division of Epidemiology, Environmental and Occupational Health, exposure to tungsten carbide may result in lung issues, as it often contains nickel and chromium, which can trigger asthma.