Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What condition does siderosis refer to?

1. A respiratory ailment caused by inhaling metal fumes

2. A skin condition from chemical exposure

3. A psychological disorder from metal toxicity

4. A type of cancer associated with prolonged exposure

The correct answer is: A respiratory ailment caused by inhaling metal fumes

Siderosis specifically refers to a condition caused by the accumulation of iron in the lungs as a result of inhaling iron dust or fumes, typically seen in certain occupational settings like welding or foundries. This accumulation can lead to respiratory issues, as the iron particles cause inflammation and lesions within lung tissue. While the other options touch upon various health issues related to metal exposure or toxicity, they do not accurately represent siderosis. Conditions resulting from chemical exposure could refer to a variety of skin or respiratory ailments, but they are not specific to the iron accumulation seen in siderosis. A psychological disorder due to metal toxicity may involve other metals or compounds but does not describe the pulmonary condition that siderosis represents. Finally, while some cancers can be associated with environmental factors, siderosis itself does not refer to cancer but rather to a specific respiratory condition due to inhaling iron particles.