8.1 Toxic Effects
Studies were not found in the literature concerning adverse effects of selenium on humans in water contact recreation (e.g., swimming). However, dermal effects (e.g., skin rashes, burns, and contact dermatitis) in humans have been reported for both acute and chronic exposure to selenium fumes and selenium dioxide (USDHHS 1994).
A 1988 case report described a female laboratory technician who developed severely puritic vesicles between her fingers after a 6-month exposure to media containing selenium. After 2 years, the severity of the symptoms increased to include eczema on the face and neck, watering eyes, and two asthma attacks. Sodium selenite or the broth containing selenium was the only positive patch tests (Senff et al. 1988). No effects were detected in eight women exposed daily for 2 weeks to a lotion containing up to 0.003 mg/kg selenium as L-selenomethionine designed to be used as an experimental sunscreen (Burke et al. 1992).
8.2 Summary of Existing Guidelines
Information on recreational water quality guidelines for selenium was not found in the literature.
8.3 Recommended Water Quality Guidelines
A water quality guideline for selenium in recreational waters is not recommended because of the lack of information.