Question

What is the difference between acute and chronic chemical exposure?

Answer
By Jessica Barrett | Last updated: September 20, 2022

Chemical exposure of any kind can be dangerous. How dangerous it is, however, will depend on a number of factors, including the duration of exposure.

That's where the concept of acute and chronic exposure comes in, and why understanding that distinction is helpful for assessing and communicating the severity of an exposure incident.

Simply put, exposure to chemicals is considered acute if it is relatively brief. Chronic exposure, on the other hand, takes place over a longer period of time and involves repeat exposure to the substance.

To get a better understanding of these two types of exposure, let's look at each of them more closely.

Acute Chemical Exposure

Acute exposure is a short-term exposure to a chemical, lasting anywhere from seconds to hours. Health effects show up immediately or soon after the exposure and can range from minor irritations to serious eye damage or loss of consciousness.

The health effects of acute exposure can include:

  • Irritation (rashes and dry skin)
  • Corrosivity (burns or dissolved skin tissue)
  • Sensitization (allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock)

(Be prepared – learn about First Aid for Chemical Exposure Incidents)

Chronic Chemical Exposure

Chronic exposure is a continued or repeated exposure to a toxic substance over an extended period of time (months or years). It often involves chemicals that are used daily or are found i

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n the work environment.

The effects of chronic exposure may not be apparent for years, sometimes only manifesting long after the exposure has ceased. In many cases, the effects of chronic chemical exposure are permanent.

Note that some chemicals may cause both acute and chronic symptoms. For example, exposure to a chemical's vapor may cause immediate dizziness (an acute effect), while repeat exposure to the chemical could also result in damage to the liver (a chronic effect).

(Learn more in Toxic Heavy Metals and Occupational Cancer Risks)

Preventing Chemical Exposure

The best way to protect workers from exposure is to implement control measures for chemical hazards. Elimination and substitution are preferred where possible. Engineering controls like ventillation systems can also help in some situation. Workers handling chemical products also need to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

(Check out our Guide to Selecting Chemical Protective Clothing for more information)

Ensuring that chemical products are labeled in accordance to OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) is also essential. The HCS is designed to ensure that information about chemical and toxic substance hazards in the workplace and associated protective measures are easily communicated and disseminated to workers.

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Written by Jessica Barrett

Jessica Barrett

Jessica is a freelance writer and editor from Toronto, Canada. She specializes in creating content for nonprofits and has written for organizations working in human rights, conservation, education, and health care. She loves traveling and food, speaks Spanish, and has two dogs, one of whom she rescued while living in Mexico.

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