Typically, people associate chlorine with swimming pools. Although used in swimming pools, other applications include usage in the manufacturing industry and it does pose, if exposed to it for lengthy amount of time, health problems.
Chlorine, first invented during World War I, was initially used as a chemical weapon. It made it difficult for the person, exposed to it, to function normally as it caused choking and watering of eyes. Now, it is one of the most manufactured chemicals in the world, following the discovery of its application in paper and cloth production.
Depending upon the closeness to the manufacturing plant, that uses chlorine in their production, people are at risk of chlorine exposure. Chlorine can also hurt worker’s whom work around chlorine in factories on a daily basis. This fact is also dependent on the length of the exposure to the chemical.
Even if people do not work directly with chlorine, they may still be exposed to it. In low-lying areas, a chlorine spill can be serious since chlorine is more dense than air and tends to settle into these areas. In those instances, it is essential to evacuate everyone until it is determined that the chlorine has cleared.
Someone exposed to chlorine will experience a number of symptoms including burning, watering, and blurred vision in the eyes, chest tightness and coughing, and burning in the nose and throat. Greater exposure will result in more severe symptoms within hours, including difficulty breathing or pulmonary edema. Those who come in skin contact may also experience symptoms similar to frostbite.
While the long-term effects are still not entirely know, exposure to chlorine has been linked to serious problems, including complications from pneumonia and chronic bronchitis. Further research from scientists is likely to uncover other health effects. Regardless, if you experience symptoms of exposure or believe you have been exposed to chlorine, seek immediate medical help.

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