Arsenic Analysis

Dimensions: 25.5 x 15.5 x 14.5 cm

Arsenic is a naturally occurring metal element, but in large quantities, it can be toxic to human health. In the natural world, arsenic is found in rocks and soil, which is why it is more often found in groundwater than in lakes and seas. Arsenic can also be a byproduct of human activities such as mining and fracking, as well as in industrial processes and agriculture. As arsenic occurs naturally in the environment, we can be exposed to it from air, food and water. 

Coming into contact with arsenic through ingestion or inhalation is what causes the adverse effects. Arsenic poisoning can be acute or chronic. A large amount of arsenic consumed in a short space of time can result in acute poisoning. Whereas, chronic arsenic poisoning occurs when small amounts of arsenic build up over time. Symptoms of arsenic poisoning include organ failure, nerve damage and skin scaling. It is on the World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) 10 chemicals of major public health concern.

Arsenic is commonly used in industrial manufacturing processes, for example, the manufacture of batteries and electrical components. Most toxins that are regulated in drinking water are also monitored in wastewater effluents. For acceptable levels of arsenic in wastewater, it is generally advised to follow guidance from the Water Framework Directive or Drinking Water Regulations.

Historically, arsenic was also used in wood treatment chemicals and pesticides although its use in these industries has declined rapidly. However, sanding or burning wood preserved with inorganic arsenic will release the arsenic which may then be inhaled. Cigarette smoke also contains arsenic.

Arsenic is present in small amounts in soil and therefore is present in our food. It is also in the ocean, which transfers to seafood, especially the filtering molluscs, such as clams and oysters. Some arsenic may be present as a contaminant in meats as well. Arsenic is also found in many fuel oils and coal – when these are burned, the arsenic is released into the environment. Weed killers and some insecticides (particularly lead-arsenate sprays) are also sources of arsenic contamination. 

Ingestion of arsenic can be dangerous, leading to illness. In some cases, it can be fatal. Possible effects of arsenic toxicity include hair loss, dermatitis, diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms, fatigue, headaches, confusion, muscle pains, red and white blood cell problems, neurologic symptoms, and liver and kidney damage. Acute arsenic exposure may cause a rapid series of symptoms. Arsine gas exposure is extremely toxic to the lungs and kidneys and is often fatal. Death from low-level, chronic arsenic exposure has the appearance of death from natural causes.