Pollutants may include almost any natural or artificial composition of matter capable of being airborne. They may be in the form of solid particles, liquid droplets, gases, or in combination thereof. Such pollutants include asbestos, beryllium, mercury, benzene, coke-oven emissions, radionuclides, and vinyl chloride. The level of pollutants prescribed by regulations that may not be exceeded during a given time in a defined area. Arsenic A metal widely distributed in nature and found mostly in water.
Industrial contamination is the primary source of airborne arsenic.
Active smelters may be a source of high exposure to arsenic fumes and dust. The manufacture of pesticides and other agricultural products is the major source of occupational exposure. Arsenic has been associated with skin cancer, lung cancer, peripheral vascular disease and liver injury. Reproductive effects have been noted in animals. Asbestos A mineral fiber that can pollute air or water and cause cancer or asbestosis when inhaled.