Cadmium is one of the most harmful chemical elements which adversely affect the environment. Technological development in this century has resulted in a rapid increase in cadmium content in the surface layer of Earth’s crust, waters and air. Cadmium is listed as one of the most toxic elements to the environment. The author discusses the forms of this element in nature and various types of cadmium poisoning; she also stresses that data on daily cadmium intake in Poland are very disturbing.
In foundry, like in other industries, safety at work and air and water pollution are in the focus of attention. Large amounts of harmful substances can be emitted when the die is filled with a liquid alloy. The author discusses these processes in detail and how to avoid risks.