Where It Comes From
Welding/brazing aluminum, grinding/sanding/polishing, smelting/recycling, metal powder handling and 3D printing [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing workplace air; bringing dust home on clothes; DIY metalwork; occasionally from air near metalworking facilities [1][2].
Why It Matters
Can irritate eyes, nose, and lungs; cause cough/wheeze. Long-term high exposure has been linked to pulmonary fibrosis (aluminosis). People with kidney disease can build up aluminum and develop bone or brain effects at high exposures [1].
Who Is at Risk
Welders, metal fabricators, polishers, recyclers, powder/AM workers; people with asthma/COPD; smokers; those with kidney disease [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use local exhaust and wet methods; avoid dry sweeping—use HEPA vacuums; wear appropriate respirators when needed; wash hands and change out of work clothes before going home; maintain good ventilation/filtration during DIY work [1][2].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Aluminum. https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tfacts22.pdf
- [2]CDC/NIOSH. Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Aluminum (metal dust and fume). https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0013.html