Chapter 13 - Occupational exposure to metallic cobalt

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This chapter discusses the occupational exposure to metallic cobalt (Co). Food and beverages are the main source of Co exposure for the general population. Traces of Co are also present in cement and various household products. In hard metal alloys and diamond abrasive, Co acts as a binder for the different powder components. Except in the production of the Co powders, the uses of these products involve exposure to Co and to other substances such as tungsten carbide, iron, and diamond that modulate the biological reactivity of cobalt. It results as the main cause of the disease for occupationally exposed workers. Inhalation of cobalt-containing dusts also leads to toxic effects. Low absorption through the skin also occurs. In workers exposed to pure cobalt metal powder, cobalt salts, and cobalt-containing dusts, the two main target organs are skin and the respiratory tract. Contact dermatitis, bronchial asthma, and irritative forms of the respiratory apparatus are well-established diseases in relation to Co exposure. Co exposure alone is essential for developing lymphocytic alveolitis and interstitial lung fibrosis hard metal disease (HMD).