Occupational exposure to antimony has been extensively evaluated by health authorities. Historical respiratory effects were associated with higher workplace dust exposures, while modern occupational hygiene measures and exposure limits have significantly reduced worker exposure.

Current risk assessments focus on the respirable fraction of airborne antimony particles, as these are most relevant for deep-lung exposure. As a result, several jurisdictions have established occupational exposure limits (OELs) and threshold limit values (TLVs) for one or more forms of antimony.

The following workplace exposure limits are currently in place:

CountryOccupational exposure limitMaximum exposure timeDocument number–DateTitle
UK0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2020Antimony and compounds except stibine (as Sb)
German MAK-Commission0.006 mg/m³ (expressed as respirable Antimony) 2018Antimony trisulfide (respirable fraction)
Netherlands0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2006Antimony and Antimony compounds
Finland0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2025Antimony and Antimony compounds
Belgium0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2014Antimony and Antimony compounds
France0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2017Antimony and Antimony compounds
Sweden0.25 mg/m³ 2023Antimony and Antimony compounds (except antimony trioxide)
US NIOSH and OSHA0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2026Antimony and Antimony compounds
Australia0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2025Antimony and Antimony compounds
Japan0.1 mg/m³8h TWA2024Antimony and compounds (as Antimony except Stibine)
China0.5 mg/m³8h TWA2007Antimony and Antimony compounds

Other section

Product Restrictions

Product Restrictions

Antimony has been evaluated by regulatory authorities worldwide for its use in consumer products and materials. A range of measures has been established to manage potential consumer exposure, including requirements relating to drinking water, food-contact materials, children's products and specific product categories.

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Waste and Environmental Restrictions

Waste and Environmental Restrictions

Decision 2000/532/EC, Decision 2003/33/EC, Directive and 2010/75/EU 

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Risk Assessment

Risk Assessment

Antimony substances have been assessed over several decades by regulatory authorities and scientific bodies worldwide. These assessments have examined human health, environmental, and occupational risks associated with the manufacture, use and end-of-life management of antimony substances.

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