Chromium-6 can be released in the form of dust or smoke during sanding, grinding or welding. The risks inherent in these activities are not limited to exposure to chromium-6, but also include harmful welding fumes and fine particulates produced by sanding. These are known risks in the industry, and the current work methods and safety guidelines address these risks. We now know that old layers of paint on the exterior of some trains and certain fastening materials also contain chromium-6, so we have reviewed and updated our work methods as necessary. Research has shown that chromium-6 may be released through the following activities :
Cleaning trains with compressed air after sanding (this work method is no longer used)
Sanding for spot repairs on exteriors
Cutting into the wall and hull plate behind the foot-board in the grit cabin
Grinding/welding of the stainless steel bulkhead
Moving trains by means of air cushion transport (this is now performed using a new transportation method that does not use air).