Ammonia (NH₃) is commonly used in industry and commerce and exists naturally in humans and in the environment. Ammonia can be found in some cleaning products and most people are exposed to ammonia from inhalation of the gas or vapors.

Asbestos refers to six fibrous minerals that occur naturally in the environment. Asbestos has commonly been used in manufactured goods such as building materials, automobile parts, heat-resistant fabrics, and packaging. Asbestos is a known carcinogen and can cause other disease.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to make polycarbonate plastic which is used for items such as baby bottles, reusable water bottles, food containers, and other storage containers. BPA can be released into food and beverages from these containers.

Cadmium occurs naturally in the earth's crust and is used in batteries, metal coatings, and plastics. You may be exposed to cadmium from cigarette smoking, eating foods containing cadmium, or from children's metal jewelry.

Chlorine is commonly used in industrial and household products. Learn what to do to reduce your risks when handling and storing chlorine containing products.

Hydrogen sulfide occurs naturally in the environment and can be released from industrial processes, landfills, sewers, septic systems, wastewater treatment plants, animal manure, and field fertilizers.

Mercury is naturally occurring and can be found in fish and products such as thermometers, thermostats, and florescent light bulbs.

Pesticides are a group chemicals and biological gents used to kill pests such as unwanted plants or animals. Pesticides include herbicides for destroying weeds a, insecticides for controlling unwanted insects, and fungicides to prevent the growth of molds and mildew. People are exposed to low levels of pesticide residues through their diets due to their widespread use in farming.

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used in consumer products such as food packaging, stain and water repellents, cleaning products, personal care products and paints; as well as in firefighting foam. PFAS are widely found in the environment and can stay in the human body for years. Learn more about New York State PFAS and Health Projects.

Potassium iodide (KI) is a chemical compound that can be used to protect the thyroid gland from possible radiation injury caused by radioactive iodine (radioiodine) in case of a radiological emergency.

Ricin is a chemical poison found in castor beans and is used as a terrorism agent. Accidental exposure to ricin is highly unlikely.

Tetracholorethene (PERC) is manufactured and is commonly used in dry-cleaning for fabrics or clothes. It can also be found in paint and spot removers, water repellents, and glues.

Trichloroethene (TCE) is commonly used as a solvent to remove grease from metal, spots from clothing, and as a paint stripper. It is also found in paints, varnishes, and adhesives.