Which exposure process involves taking in materials through the skin or eyes?

Which exposure process involves taking in materials through the skin or eyes?

• A. Inhalation
• B. Absorption
• C. Injection
• D. Ingestion

Answer: (B)

Absorption is the exposure process where hazardous materials enter the body through contact with the skin or mucous membranes, such as the eyes. Substances can permeate the skin or be dissolved and carried into the bloodstream, and the eyes can absorb chemicals rapidly through the conjunctiva. This is different from inhalation, which brings vapors or dust into the lungs; ingestion, which involves swallowing into the digestive tract; and injection, which requires a break in the skin to introduce material directly into the body. So taking in materials through the skin or eyes fits absorption. Factors that affect how much is absorbed include the chemical’s ability to dissolve in fats, the concentration and duration of exposure, and the condition of the skin (damaged or cracked skin can increase absorption). Protecting against absorption involves using appropriate PPE like gloves and protective eyewear, washing exposed skin with soap and water, and rinsing eyes with clean water if splashed.

Absorption is the exposure process where hazardous materials enter the body through contact with the skin or mucous membranes, such as the eyes. Substances can permeate the skin or be dissolved and carried into the bloodstream, and the eyes can absorb chemicals rapidly through the conjunctiva. This is different from inhalation, which brings vapors or dust into the lungs; ingestion, which involves swallowing into the digestive tract; and injection, which requires a break in the skin to introduce material directly into the body. So taking in materials through the skin or eyes fits absorption.

Factors that affect how much is absorbed include the chemical’s ability to dissolve in fats, the concentration and duration of exposure, and the condition of the skin (damaged or cracked skin can increase absorption). Protecting against absorption involves using appropriate PPE like gloves and protective eyewear, washing exposed skin with soap and water, and rinsing eyes with clean water if splashed.