What is the Chromium (Urine) test?

The Chromium (Urine) test measures the concentration of chromium excreted in a urine sample. Urinary chromium reflects recent exposure rather than long-term body stores, as chromium is primarily eliminated via the kidneys.

This test is commonly used in occupational health, environmental exposure assessment, and clinical toxicology. It is particularly relevant where there is suspected exposure to chromium through work, environmental sources, or contaminated materials.

Urine testing is preferred for exposure assessment because chromium levels in urine rise following absorption and decline as the metal is cleared from the body.

Why do I need a Chromium (Urine) test?

Chromium exposure can occur through industrial processes, metalwork, pigments, cement, leather processing, and certain environmental or occupational settings. Monitoring urinary chromium helps assess whether recent exposure has occurred.

You may need a Chromium (Urine) test if you:

• Have occupational exposure to metals
• Work with stainless steel, welding, or pigments
• Are exposed to industrial dust or chemicals
• Have suspected environmental contamination
• Require monitoring following known exposure
• Are undergoing metal exposure screening
• Have symptoms potentially linked to metal exposure

Possible symptoms associated with chromium exposure may include:

• Skin irritation or rashes
• Respiratory irritation
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Headaches or fatigue
• Changes in kidney function (in significant exposure)

Symptoms depend on exposure level, duration, and chromium form.

Benefits of the Chromium (Urine) test

• Assesses recent chromium exposure
  Reflects recent absorption and excretion.
• Useful in occupational health monitoring
  Commonly used in workplace exposure assessment.
• Supports environmental exposure investigations
  Helps identify potential contamination.
• Non-invasive testing method
  Requires only a urine sample.
• Suitable for exposure follow-up
  Useful after known or suspected exposure.
• Clinically recognised toxicology marker
  Used in metal exposure assessment.
• Supports risk management decisions
  Helps guide further investigation or controls.
• Applicable to repeat monitoring
  Allows tracking of exposure trends over time.

Step by step – how the test works

You can complete Chromium (Urine) testing UK-wide using two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic and provide a urine sample on site.
2. At-home testing (£60 extra)
   Collect your urine sample at home following provided instructions, without attending a clinic.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited laboratory and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Low chromium levels

Indicate no significant recent chromium exposure.

Typical UK reference range:

• < 1.0 µg/L (spot urine, laboratory dependent)

Normal chromium levels

Suggest background environmental exposure within expected limits.

Typical UK reference range:

• Within laboratory reference interval

High chromium levels

Suggest recent or ongoing exposure. Further evaluation of exposure source may be required.

Typical UK reference range:

• Above laboratory reference interval

Reference ranges vary depending on laboratory methodology and sample type.