How are chemical contaminants like heavy metals transferred from dust?

Through inhalation or ingestion after settling on food or hands.

Chemical contaminants such as heavy metals and phthalates adhere to dust particles, meaning that exposure pathways extend beyond simple breathing. Because dust settles everywhere, these toxic particles can easily transfer to surfaces like hands or food items. The risk then becomes twofold: inhalation of the contaminated fine particles and ingestion when those hands or food items come into contact with the mouth. This transfer mechanism highlights why damp cleaning and filtration are emphasized for chemical dust, as they target the fine fraction of particles before they can be easily transferred to the digestive system, especially concerning for small children who spend time on the floor.