Threshold Limit Values are the airborne concentrations of a material that yields no adverse health effect when inhaled forty hours a week over a working lifetime. Eye or mucous membrane irritations can also occur. Chronic exposure can result in dermatitis and system effects. Corrosives usually produce acute effects, including eye, mucous membrane, and upper airway irritations. Dermatitis and severe burns can occur with skin contact, and bronchitis can develop with chronic exposure.
Poisons can cause systemic disease, or fatality.
Consult the MSDS for other classes of chemicals. Most methods of detection rely on the observations of laboratory workers. Observation of vapors, particulates, and odor can alert workers to dangerous exposures. Environmental monitoring is required for some chemicals such as formaldehyde. Formaldehyde vapor monitors are available.