Chlorine in the Public Water Supply

Chlorine is a yellow-green, poisonous, gaseous compound with a pungent odor and a high potential for irritation. Chlorine is most often used as a water purification agent or as a bleaching and/or disinfection tool. When ingested in the liquid form, chlorine can lead to several types of cancer, including bladder, rectal, and breast cancer. When inhaled in the gaseous form, chlorine is a known cause and/or irritant of the respiratory conditions asthma and bronchitis. In addition, dermal absorption of chlorine can cause severe skin irritations.