[Developments in chromate allergy in the German construction industry]

Abstract

For decades potassium dichromate has been the most important allergen in the construction industry. In Scandinavian countries the prevalence of potassium dichromate sensitization declined following the introduction of low-chromate cement. In contrast, analysis of our register in Northern Bavaria and the data of workers compensation board show no significant decline in potassium dichromate sensitization in the German construction industry during the 1990s. In 1993, German legislation provided an Approved Code of Practice and the cement manufacturers committed themselves to reduce the level of water-soluble chromates to less than 2 ppm in bag cement. Since 2000 this agreement has also included ready-mixed concrete. It remains to be seen, if sensitization against potassium dichromate will decline in the upcoming years. Based on our data, it would be desirable if only low-chromate cement was used in the construction industry in Germany as in Scandinavia.