3 32 Ha r m fr o m Toxi c Ch e m i c a l s
Asbestosis
Asbestos is a mineral that was once used for fire protection in buildings and
some appliances. Asbestos is made of tiny fibers that get into the air and are
breathed into the lungs where they cause permanent damage. Asbestos is so
dangerous it has been banned by many governments.
Exposure to asbestos leads to asbestosis and lung cancer. Early signs of
these illnesses are coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, weight loss,
and weakness. For more information about asbestos, see page 371.
Nerve Problems
Many toxic chemicals harm our nervous
systems. Harm to the nerves can cause
confusion, memory loss, seizures (fits), and
other problems with the brain. Nerve damage can also
lead to damage to taste and smell, loss of feeling in the body, and
difficulty balancing and walking. Some chemicals can cause paralysis or even
death. Solvents commonly used for cleaning grease, such as acetone, benzene,
turpentine, and gasoline, are toxic to the nervous system.
Prevention
The best way to prevent harm to the nervous system from toxics is to reduce
their use at work and in the home. If you must use them, make sure there is
good ventilation and use gloves and masks (see Appendix A).
Skin Problems
The most common cause of skin problems and skin disease is
from chemicals in the workplace. People also get rashes, blisters,
and serious chemical burns from exposure to toxics in polluted air
or water from industrial or agricultural chemicals and wastes.
Prevention and treatment
Protect yourself from chemicals by reducing exposure and
wearing protective equipment (see Appendix A). When exposed
to chemicals, wash the skin right away with cool water and soap.
Avoid warm water because it opens the pores. If your skin has
been damaged or made very sensitive from chemical exposures,
avoid sunlight. If you must be in the sun, keep your head and
body covered as much as possible.
Some skin creams can reduce pain and soreness, but reducing
contact with the poison is the only way to stop the problem.
A Community Guide to Environmental Health 2012