Tungsten

• Published in: Hamilton & Hardy's Industrial Toxicology p. 1
• Main Authors: Haire, Kambria K, Harbison, Raymond D
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Hoboken, New Jersey John Wiley & Sons 2015; John Wiley & Sons, Inc
• Edition: 6th Edition
• Subjects: chronic health effects; Industrial Hygiene; lung diseases; mammalian toxicology; Safety & Industrial Hygiene; tungsten exposure
• ISBN: 9780470929735; 0470929731
• DOI: 10.1002/9781118834015.ch36

This chapter describes the background and uses, physical and chemical properties, mammalian toxicology, sources of exposure, industrial hygiene and medical management of tungsten. As a heavy metal, tungsten is known as an irritant where acute health effects may result in occupational workers. Acute occupational exposures can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Many of the chronic health effects resulting from tungsten exposure impact the lungs and respiratory system. Long‐term exposures may impact the cells of the respiratory tract and could lead to lung diseases. Most occupational exposures to tungsten occur through inhalation of dust or through dermal contact during the processes of production and usage of tungsten and its compounds. The use of personal protective equipment during the handling and use of tungsten and its compounds is considered as safe industrial hygiene practices.