Lime (calcium oxide) is produced through the heating of coral, limestone, chalk, or seashells. This process expels carbon dioxide gas, leaving lime as the main product. Sourcing out calcium oxide from limestone is among the oldest chemical processes done by man. It is also very valuable; almost half of its production is intended for use by the steel industry.
However calcium oxide can be harmful when inhaled, irritating the lungs, causing shortness of breath and coughing. Contact can lead to eye and skin irritations or burns. Being exposed for a long time may result in nose irritation which can later result in porous bones, fragile nails and breaks in the skin.
Workers in a lime factory, India. There is an absence of proper protective clothing and footwear. Every surface inside and outside the factory is coated in a thin layer of lime. The turnover of workers is high and illness frequent.
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