Beryllium is a naturally occurring, hard, grayish metal found in some rocks, soil, coal, and volcanic dust. Compounds containing beryllium are commercially mined, and the beryllium is purified for use in air and spacecrafts, nuclear weapons and reactors, x-ray machines, instruments, and mirrors. Beryllium ores are used to makes certain kinds of ceramics for electrical and high-tech uses. Alloys containing the metal are used in cars, computers, dental bridges, and some sporting equipment such as golf clubs and bicycle frames.

How You Are Exposed

Beryllium dust can enter the air when coal and oil are burned and it can enter the water from the wearing away of rocks and soil, as well as from industrial waste. The general population is exposed to low levels of beryllium in air, food and water. People that work in or live near industries where the metal is mined, processed, machined, or converted into other materials and chemicals may be exposed to higher levels of beryllium in the air. The risk of exposure is also higher for anyone living near an uncontrolled hazardous waste facility.

How Can Beryllium Affect Your Health?

Inhaling beryllium can be harmful. If the concentration in the air is high enough, a condition called acute beryllium disease can result. The symptoms are similar to those of pneumonia. 

Some people can become sensitive to beryllium and may develop an inflammatory reaction in the respiratory system called chronic beryllium disease or CBD. This condition can even occur many years after the exposure and symptoms can include weakness, difficulty breathing, anorexia, weight loss, and enlargement of the right side of the heart as well as heart disease. Long-term exposure to beryllium can also increase your chances of developing lung cancer.