Additional chemicals used in the non-ferrous metals industries

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Appendix B

Appendix B

Additional chemicals used in the non-ferrous

metals industries

Ammonia

Short-term (acute) inhalation causes severe irritation of the

respiratory tract. Skin contact results in burns, blistering and, pos-

sibly, permanent scarring of the skin. Eye contact causes irritation

and, possibly, corrosive injury.

Benzene

Short-term (acute) inhalation causes depression of the cen-

tral nervous system, marked by drowsiness, dizziness, headache,

nausea, loss of coordination, confusion and unconsciousness.

Long-term exposure to benzene reduces the number of red and

white blood cells and damages bone marrow. Benzene is

carcinogenic.

Carbon monoxide

Inhalation of carbon monoxide causes symptoms including

headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea, fainting, increased heart-

beat, irregular heartbeat, loss of consciousness and death.

Chlorine

If inhaled, chlorine causes severe breathing difficulties and

pulmonary oedema. It can aggravate respiratory diseases, such as

bronchitis and asthma.

Cyclohexane

Short-term (acute) inhalation can cause headache, nausea,

dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. In very high concentrations,