Occupational disease
Occupational cadmium poisoning
Apr
Cadmium is a heavy metal, rarely found in pure form, and usually combines with other elements to form compounds such as cadmium oxide, cadmium chloride, cadmium sulfide, cadmium sulfate, and more.
Cadmium is one of the very few elements that are not beneficial to the human body. This element and its compounds are highly toxic, even at low concentrations, due to bioaccumulation in the body. One of the most likely reasons for their toxicity is interference with reactions of enzymes containing zinc, magnesium, and other elements.
1. What is Occupational Cadmium Poisoning?
Occupational cadmium poisoning is a pathological condition caused by exposure to cadmium during work, leading to characteristic health disorders.
Inhaling dust containing cadmium quickly affects the respiratory system and kidneys and can lead to death (commonly due to kidney failure). Swallowing small amounts of cadmium can cause acute poisoning, damaging the liver and kidneys. Cadmium-containing compounds are also carcinogenic. In addition to kidney damage, affected individuals are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
2. Occupations at Risk of Cadmium Poisoning
Some occupations with high risk of cadmium poisoning include:
- Cadmium is often used in welding, so welders are at high risk of cadmium poisoning.
- Cadmium is also used in electroplating to enhance the durability and shine of surfaces.
- Manufacturing nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries.
- Workers in zinc, lead, and copper ore mining and processing.
- Production of low-temperature alloys.
- Manufacturing dyes, pigments, and coatings.
- Plastic production.
Workers in these fields should follow occupational safety regulations and use protective equipment to reduce the risk of cadmium poisoning.
3. Mechanism and Causes of Cadmium Poisoning
The mechanism and cause of cadmium poisoning are due to cadmium accumulation in the human body. Main causes include:
- Exposure to cadmium in workplaces in industries such as battery manufacturing, metal production, and mining has a high risk of cadmium poisoning.
- Food items such as seafood and vegetables may contain cadmium if grown in contaminated soil.
Cadmium directly affects cells, tissues, and organs, causing damage, particularly to the liver and kidneys. Damaged cells reduce organ function, leading to symptoms like fatigue, headache, nausea, and kidney dysfunction. If untreated, cadmium poisoning can cause serious damage to the body, leading to kidney and liver diseases, and may be fatal.
Discover the Occupational Cadmium Poisoning Risk Assessment Tool, specialized in cadmium-related workplace hazards. This tool provides detailed risk evaluations and safety recommendations, helping workers and managers understand and manage risks. With a multidimensional database and advanced algorithms, the tool is a reliable resource for health professionals and occupational safety managers. Its main goal is to protect workers’ health and reduce cadmium-related risks while maintaining a safe and sustainable work environment.
4. Symptoms of Cadmium Poisoning
Depending on the level and duration of exposure, workers may experience:
- Fatigue, headache, dizziness, and general health decline.
- Ingestion of cadmium can cause digestive disorders such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Inhaling cadmium oxide fumes may cause flu-like symptoms, metallic fever, and possible asthma attacks.
- Cadmium poisoning can damage the nervous system, leading to tremors, sensory decline, and reduced mobility.
- Cadmium may cause bone and joint damage, pain, and decreased bone function.
5. Effects of Occupational Cadmium Poisoning
Cadmium poisoning may cause:
- Kidney damage: pain in the kidney area, painful urination, cloudy or bloody urine, possible edema.
- Bone damage: bone pain, softening, osteoporosis, and increased fracture risk.
- Respiratory damage: rhinitis, reduced or lost sense of smell, chronic bronchitis or lung conditions (cough, dyspnea, sputum, chest pain, fever).
6. Protective Equipment to Prevent Cadmium Poisoning
To prevent cadmium poisoning, workers should properly use personal protective equipment:
- Masks suitable for cadmium dust and fumes, such as half-face or full-face respirators.
- Protective clothing with anti-static and water-resistant properties to prevent direct exposure.
- Protective gloves to prevent direct contact with cadmium.
- Protective goggles against dust and cadmium fumes.
- Safety shoes with anti-slip soles, durability, and anti-static features.
Workers should follow safety protocols, minimize cadmium exposure, maintain personal hygiene, and undergo regular health checks to detect early symptoms.
7. Compensation for Workers with Cadmium Poisoning
In Vietnam, workers with cadmium poisoning are compensated under the Social Insurance Law. Benefits include:
- Health insurance coverage for treatment and medical care related to the disease.
- Social insurance benefits according to law.
- If poisoning occurs due to unsafe materials, tools, or equipment, the employer is responsible for compensation.
- Occupational disease assessment for insurance and support claims.
However, proving the cause of cadmium poisoning can be challenging, so prevention through protective equipment and safety compliance is crucial.
8. Treatment of Cadmium Poisoning
Treatment depends on severity and exposure duration:
- Remove the patient from the contaminated environment to prevent further exposure.
- Medication to remove cadmium from the body, treat symptoms, and support kidney function.
- Symptomatic treatment under medical supervision.
- Monitor kidney function and manage complications if affected.
- Balanced diet, rest, and nutrition to support recovery.
9. Prevention of Occupational Cadmium Poisoning
To prevent cadmium poisoning, follow these measures:
- Regular cleaning of tools and work areas where cadmium exposure is possible.
- Periodic inspection of ventilation and equipment.
- Training on proper use of protective equipment and preventive measures.
- Monitor cadmium levels and implement measures to reduce exposure.
- Regular health monitoring of workers in high-risk areas.
10. Employer Responsibility in Preventing Cadmium Poisoning
Employers must ensure safe working conditions by:
- Providing information about cadmium risks and preventive measures.
- Providing appropriate protective equipment to reduce exposure risk.
- Training staff on health and safety regulations.
- Adjusting work schedules to minimize exposure time and implement safety measures.
- Conducting workplace environmental monitoring and reporting results to improve working conditions.
11. National Workplace Environmental Monitoring Center
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