It is produced electrolytically from a salt solution. Chlorine gas is also used as bleach in the production of paper and for disinfecting drinking water. Chlorine gas was used as a chemical weapon in the First World War and exposure can be rapidly fatal. There have been numerous releases of chlorine from industrial facilities, many of them resulting in deaths. Long-term exposure to lower levels of chlorine is reported to cause respiratory complaints and corrosion of the teeth.
Chlorine is a potent irritant to the eyes, lungs and skin.
Chlorine is not carcinogenic in animals or humans, but is highly toxic to aquatic organisms. It does not occur naturally. When exposed to air, chlorobenzene evaporates and breaks down into other chemicals. It is moderately soluble in water, and is not likely to accumulate in the tissues of plants and animals. Contact with clorobenzene liquid or vapor can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat.