The objective of this section is to help users to identify the tools to assess risks to public health with regard to mercury and to manage those risks appropriately.
Mercury is toxic to human health and exists in various forms: elemental (or metallic); inorganic (e.g. mercuric chloride); and organic (e.g., methyl- and ethylmercury), which all have different toxic effects, including on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes. Some pose a particular theat to the development of the child in utero and early in life.
In order to set up or improve the public health management of mercury further information is provided, including tools for action and norms and guidelines.