Major Hazards Repeated or prolonged exposure to mercury vapor is highly toxic to the central nervous system. Toxicity The acute toxicity of mercury varies significantly with the route of exposure.
Ingestion is largely without effects.
Inhalation of high concentrations of mercury causes severe respiratory irritation, digestive disturbances, and marked kidney damage. There are no warning properties for exposure to mercury vapor, which is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Toxicity caused by repeated or prolonged exposure to mercury vapor or liquid is characterized by emotional disturbances, inflammation of the mouth and gums, general fatigue, memory loss, headaches, tremors, anorexia, and weight loss. Skin absorption of mercury and mercury vapor adds to the toxic effects of vapor inhalation. Mercury has been reported to be capable of causing sensitization dermatitis.