Arsenic is historically the poison of choice for many murders, in reality and in fiction. Here, arsenic is dealt with only as mineral specimens and is not to be ingested. Although it has been used as a poison, arsenic has many chemical uses and is quite an important element. Exposure to higher than average levels of arsenic occur mostly in the workplace, near hazardous waste sites, or in areas with high natural levels. At high levels, inorganic arsenic can cause death. Exposure to lower levels for a long time can cause a discoloration of the skin and the appearance of small corns or warts. Arsenic has been found in at least 1,149 of the 1,684 National Priority List sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Key words: Arsenic, exposure, hazards.