What is a common symptom of chlorine gas exposure?

Chlorine gas exposure can lead to a variety of health symptoms, and eye irritation is one of the most common and immediate responses. This occurs because chlorine is a potent irritant to mucous membranes, including those of the eyes. When chlorine gas comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause symptoms such as redness, burning sensations, tearing, and decreased vision due to the irritation of the conjunctiva and cornea.

While other symptoms can occur due to chlorine exposure, such as headaches, skin rashes, and nausea, eye irritation is often one of the earliest indicators of exposure. Understanding the immediate effects of chlorine gas is crucial for managing safety in environments where chlorine is used, particularly in swimming pools, as it helps in the prompt identification and response to potential exposure incidents.