There are three major routes of entry by which chemicals may enter the body: inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact.
1. Inhalation: The most common way that foreign substances enter the body is from vapors, fumes, dust, gases, or mists that can be inhaled into the respiratory system. These substances may damage the nose, mouth, and upper respiratory tract, lungs, or be absorbed into the bloodstream and travel to other organs in the body.
2. Ingestion: Substances may be accidentally or willingly ingested through the contamination of food, drinks, cigarettes, and hands. These substances may affect the mouth, throat, and/or stomach or be absorbed into the bloodstream.
3. Skin Contact: Substances may attack or destroy the natural protective barriers of the skin, damaging the skin itself and enabling toxic chemicals to enter the bloodstream, where they are carried to various organs of the body. It is imperative that eating and/or drinking do not occur in any work area.