What Makes Something Toxic?

In industrial settings, safety isn’t just about avoiding dangerous chemicals. Even everyday substances can become harmful when workers are exposed to too much of them. Water, cleaning products, and even food-grade additives are used regularly in many workplaces. But when workers are exposed to these substances in high amounts or over long periods, the risks increase.

All substances are toxic. However, it’s dependent upon dosage and concentration,” says Malcolm Ritchie, Safety Professional for Martin Supply.

This concept is especially important when dealing with vapors, gases, and fumes. A small amount might not be dangerous at first. But if the amount in the air increases, or if a person is around it for too long, the exposure can go above the Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL), which is a safety guideline set by Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA). When that happens, the same substance that seemed safe yesterday may become harmful today.

Why This Matters to Safety Managers

Knowing the PEL for substances in your facility is a critical part of preventing overexposure. These limits help determine when a material might become a hazard. But just knowing the numbers isn’t enough. Managers also need to watch for changes that could affect exposure levels.

For example, fumes and vapors may build up in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. Even if levels were safe the day before, conditions can change quickly. Workers may not notice these changes until it’s too late. A stronger smell or slight symptoms like headaches and dizziness can be early signs that exposure is rising.

Key Safety Practices

To manage this risk, it’s important to monitor air quality on a regular basis. Detection equipment can help identify when concentration levels begin to climb. This gives you time to respond before reaching unsafe conditions.

Employees should be trained to understand that even familiar substances can be dangerous in the wrong amount. Remind them that being safe yesterday doesn’t guarantee they’ll be safe today. Encourage them to report anything that smells stronger than usual or feels off.

In addition, make sure workers are using the right personal protective equipment (PPE). The kind of protection needed will depend on both the substance and the potential level of exposure. The proper use of gloves, respirators, or other gear can make a big difference in reducing health risks.

Workplace safety really depends on understanding how much is too much. You have to pay attention to dosage and concentration. By monitoring exposure levels and preparing your team, you can help prevent serious health issues and create a safer work environment for everyone.

If you need assistance with keeping things in check, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116 so we can help.