What is the main hazard associated with chlorine gas exposure?

Chlorine gas is primarily a respiratory irritant, and exposure can lead to significant respiratory distress and damage to lung tissue. When chlorine is inhaled, it reacts with moisture in the airway and lungs, forming hydrochloric acid, which can cause irritation and inflammation of the respiratory tract. This can lead to symptoms such as coughing, choking, and difficulty breathing.

High concentrations of chlorine can result in pulmonary edema, a serious condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs, severely impairing oxygen exchange and potentially leading to respiratory failure. The potential for long-term lung damage underscores the severity of the risk posed by chlorine gas.

While exposure could indeed lead to other issues, such as nausea or skin irritation, the critical and immediate hazard associated with chlorine gas is its effects on the respiratory system, making respiratory distress and lung tissue damage the primary concern in cases of exposure.