Accidental exposures have resulted in chloracne. Most Canadians are not exposed to significant levels of dioxins and furans. Air pollutants can affect us directly when we breathe them in, or indirectly, through their effects on the environment. Contact can occur outdoors, but we also encounter contaminated air indoors - in our homes and workplaces. Children and elderly persons may be more vulnerable.
Regulations aim to restrict the quantities of air pollutants entering the atmosphere.
CO is a problem if it enters the blood stream - it may reduce the delivery of oxygen to the organs and tissues of the body, especially the brain. One of the first symptoms of CO poisoning is blurred vision and clumsiness. This occurs at very high concentrations. However, lower concentrations can cause discomfort for people with heart or lung disease. In combination with water, it can form acid rain.