According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 32 million workers are exposed to hazardous substances causing acute and chronic health issues. Toxic exposure can be prevented with the proper training, safe practices, and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Companies must train their employees and workers must review the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to properly handle and store hazardous substances, recognizing toxic chemicals range in severity based on product (check SDS for details!)
If mishandled, there are four ways that chemicals enter your body.
Four Routes of Entry
- Inhalation is the most common way workers are exposed to chemicals. By inhaling dust or vapors, the chemicals travel to the respiratory tract and enter the bloodstream.
- Absorption occurs when chemicals touch the skin or eyes and cause eye irritation or severe tissue destruction, burns, or blindness. Chemicals create systemic issues in the body once passing through the skin and entering the bloodstream.
- Ingestion occurs when substances enter the mouth and travel to the digestive tract. When reaching the bloodstream, issues arise.
- Injection occurs when a contaminated sharp object penetrates the body and enters the bloodstream. Although rare, injection is the fastest way for chemicals to cause harm.
Safe Work Practices
- Limit hazardous substance use.
- Substitute dangerous chemicals with safer alternatives.
- Review SDS guidelines before handling and storing products.
- Have a plan for emergencies (first-aid, advanced medical treatment, fire-fighting measures, and spills).
- Work in well-ventilated areas.
- Avoid working alone while handling hazardous substances.
- Wear appropriate PPE according to SDS guidelines.
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