In laboratory animals, long-term exposure to low levels of ammonia causes inflammation and lesions of the respiratory tract. It has a strong irritating odor and is used in detergents, stain removers, bleaches, dyes, fibers and resins. It is a corrosive chemical, and contact with the skin or eyes can cause permanent damage. Human health risks are similar to those of ammonia. It is a silver-gray or white metallic solid.
Organic arsenic is usually less harmful than inorganic arsenic.
The latter is separated during copper and lead smelting and is used in the chemical industry, for example, in pesticides and herbicides. If released into the environment, arsenic does not break down but may change into different forms. If released into the aquatic environment it binds to sediments, and builds up in the tissues of some fish and shellfish. Workers exposed to inorganic arsenic dusts in air experience irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and various forms of cancer including lung, skin, bladder, kidney, and liver.