Inhalation

Exposure Inhalation exposure is the process of breathing in potentially hazardous particles, vapours, gases or dusts into the lungs. It is an important factor in assessing health risks for humans and other living organisms. Inhalation exposure can cause acute poisoning and long-term health effects such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is essential to monitor air quality and levels of airborne materials to reduce the risk of inhalation exposure. Measurement and monitoring of inhalation exposure can be used in industrial settings, health and safety programmes, and environmental risk assessment. Control measures such as engineering controls, administrative controls and personal protective equipment can be applied to limit inhalation exposure to hazardous materials.