Figure: Chromium pollution from tanneries around the world. Many of these tannery sites are clustered together, creating heavily polluting industrial areas in many developing countries. India has a high concentration of leather industries.

Hazards

Chromium occurs in two states: Cr(III) and Cr(VI).

Trivalent Cr(III) is relatively innocuous.

Hexavalent Cr(VI) is a toxic human carcinogen.

Ingestion stomach problems, ulcers, kidney and liver damage.

Dermal contact skin problems, rashes, sores, and ulcers.

Inhalation ulcers, swelling, asthmatic bronchitis, eye damage.

Chromium accumulation in the body can damage a person's ability to metabolize iron, leading to anemia.

Wastewater from tanneries can find their way into surface water and contaminate groundwater.

Soil contamination by chromium waste also poses a health hazard.