Most arsenic in the environment occurs in compounds, rather than as the metallic element. In general, organic arsenic-containing compounds are less toxic than inorganic ones. Hazard Summary Arsenic and arsenic compounds can affect you when breathed in, absorbed through the skin, and when swallowed. Exposure to arsenic dust and fumes has been linked to lung cancer in smelter and pesticide plant workers. Inorganic arsenic compounds are acutely toxic.
Arsenic metal is used in alloys, in glass, as a radioactive tracer.
Compounds are used in pesticides and wood preservatives. No odor reported for metal or most compounds. Arsenic trioxide has a garlic-like odor. Does not bioaccumulate. As with all chemicals, the type and severity of health effects associated with exposure to arsenic and related compounds depend on the level, duration, and route of exposure.