According to the most recent estimates, about 20,000 workers in the EU are potentially exposed to beryllium. Beryllium has a harmonised classification under the CLP regulation as Carcinogenic Category 1B, which means it probably causes lung cancer in humans.

Beryllium may also cause skin sensitization and Chronic Beryllium Disease. The primary routes of human exposure to beryllium and its compounds are through inhalation of dusts and fumes and through dermal contact with products containing beryllium.

Where risks occur

Processes with the assumed highest exposure are melting, pouring and hot work as well as mechanical grinding of beryllium alloys. Occupations at high risk of beryllium exposure are beryllium alloy makers and fabricators, ceramics workers, missile technicians, nuclear reactor workers, and electric, electronic and optical equipment workers. There are also risks for casting of non-ferrous metals and primary copper transformation, and, in case of aluminum production, exposure can be caused by beryllium content of bauxite. Occupational exposure may also lead to at-home exposure to beryllium on work garments, although in some countries, taking home clothing is prohibited.

More about the substance

Beryllium is a light metal with an unusually high melting-point and strength-to-weight ratio. It is the lightest of all solid, chemically stable substances. Pure beryllium metal and its alloys with copper and aluminum are used in aircraft industry and space vehicles, nuclear reactors and audio components. Inorganic beryllium compounds with oxide, chloride, fluoride, hydroxide, sulfate and nitrate find their uses in multiple other applications.

How symptoms can affect you

When dust containing beryllium is inhaled, it may cause shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, weight loss, fever and night sweats. In severe cases it can be fatal if inhaled and toxic if swallowed. Prolonged exposure may cause acute or chronic beryllium disease, a progressive lung disease, or even lung cancer. The latency period of beryllium related cancer varies from 15 to 25 years. Beryllium sensitization can result from inhalation or skin exposure to beryllium dust, fume, mist, or solutions.

What you can do

The most effective way to prevent exposure is to use beryllium-free or lower-beryllium concentration alternatives. If beryllium-containing products cannot be substituted, the exposure to beryllium and its compounds should be reduced through engineering controls (e. g. use in close systems, local exhaust ventilation where emissions can occur). Only use vacuum or wet cleaning of equipment and work floor surfaces (machines, floor). Periodically carry out representative exposure measurements so that it is known when and where action should be taken. Make workers continuously aware of the effects of exposure and encourage them to report on early symptoms. It is recommended to involve an occupational physician. In addition, train workers on hazards, safe work practices and on effective hygiene measures. Supplement this with personal protective equipment where feasible controls are not sufficient to reduce exposures below the exposure limits. Personal protective equipment should only be used as a last resort, after the possible technical solutions have been presented. Workers should also wash their face, hands, and forearms before eating, smoking, or applying cosmetics. Prolonged skin contact with beryllium containing dust should be avoided at all times.

References: Annex VI CLP table 3, IARC, CDC, CAREX, OSHA, NIOSH, EC, BeST