In today's world, activated carbon is employed for hundreds of diverse applications. It has excellent filtering characteristics and is hence frequently used for water treatment, pollution filtration, gas purification, and other applications. Furthermore, activated carbon is typically regarded as harmless and non-hazardous (WebMD). There are several types of activated carbon, such as granular activated carbon (GAC), powdered activated carbon (PAC), and fibrous activated carbon (FAC). Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that may influence which type of activated carbon is best suited for a particular application. Activated carbon is generally safe to breathe. However, it may cause health problems if the carbon is not cleaned properly after use or if it is contaminated with chemicals or heavy metals. Activated carbon is able to absorb large amounts of molecules including many toxic substances. When exposed to air, some of these adsorbed molecules will be released again into the atmosphere. Others may remain trapped within the carbon particles. The extent to which this release occurs depends on how much oxygen is present in the air. If too much oxygen is consumed, then less of the contaminants will be released. The carbon dust created during cleaning can be hazardous if it is inhaled. Employees who perform periodic inspections of equipment using activated carbon should wear protective clothing and equipment such as breathing apparatuses when necessary.