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    Chromium is primarily used for making steel and other alloys. In the form of chromate, it is used in making bricks for metallurgical furnaces. Chromium compounds are employed in chrome plating, the manufacture of pigments, leather tanning, wood treatment, and water treatment.

Workers in industries that produce chromium-containing products are exposed to possible toxic levels. Other occupations that expose workers to chromium are painting, maintenance and servicing of copying machines and disposal of toner powders from these machines, battery makers, candle makers, dye makers, printers, and rubber makers.

Chromium compounds vary greatly in toxicity depending on the chemical state (valence) and solubility. Health and exposure standards (e.g., American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists [ACGIH]) are divided into categories: 1) Chromium metal and alloys (including stainless steel); 2) Divalent chromium compounds (e.g., chromous chloride, chromous sulfate); 3) Trivalent compounds (e.g., chromic oxide, chromic sulfate, chromic chloride); and 4) Hexavalent compounds (e.g., chromates, dichromates). Certain hexavalent compounds are considered carcinogenic and these compounds tend to be of low solubility in water. Hence the hexavalent compounds are further subdivided into water soluble (e.g., chromic acid) and water insoluble compounds (e.g., zinc chromate).

Acute overexposure health effects include irritation of the mucous membranes. Ulceration or perforation of nasal mucosa of septum is possible. Gastrointestinal complaints, decreased sense of smell and yellow staining of the teeth and tongue can occur. High doses can cause renal disorders and liver failure. Chromium is a sensitizer and can cause allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Chromium is an acknowledged human carcinogen. Long term effects include increased risk of lung, sinus, and gastrointestinal cancers.

http://www.mdguidelines.com/toxic-effects-chromium