Chromium-6 (Hexavalent Chromium)
Chromium-6 (Cr(VI)) is a toxic, carcinogenic substance found in some industrial coatings and paints, particularly older anti-corrosion systems. When these coatings are blasted or sanded, hazardous dust particles can be released into the air.
Where is Chromium-6 a risk?
Chromium-6 coatings are still present on:
- Marine vessels – hulls, ballast tanks and superstructures.
- Oil & Gas platforms – topside equipment and piping.
- Infrastructure – bridges, cranes and transport assets.
- Industrial plants – refineries, chemical plants, power stations.
For you as an asset owner, Chromium-6 removal is a major HSE challenge because exposure endangers workers and contamination leads to severe regulatory penalties.
Extra explanation and hazards
- Health risks: lung cancer, skin ulcers, respiratory diseases.
- Regulations: strict exposure limits under EU REACH, OSHA and ILO.
- Environmental risks: blasting with open methods spreads Chromium-6 dust into air, soil and water.
Traditional blasting methods increase worker exposure and create large volumes of contaminated waste.
Pinovo’s vacuum blasting ensures:
- All dust is contained at the source.
- Waste is safely collected for controlled disposal.
- No exposure to nearby workers or environment.
- ATEX-certified operation for safe use in explosive areas.
Pinovo and Chromium-6 removal
Pinovo helps manage Chromium-6 hazards by:
- PiWalk™ – for large steel surfaces.
- PiPoint™ – for spot blasting on welds, joints and details.
- PiHab™ – for rope access and confined space blasting.
Pinovo does not neutralize Chromium-6 chemically, but ensures controlled and dust-free removal for safe recoating and repair.