1draftfinalICFManganeseJune112016-USEPA.pdfVIP

Manganese Compounds Hazard Summary Manganese is naturally occurring in the environment. Manganese is essential for normal physiologic functioning in humans and animals, and exposure to low levels of manganese in the diet is considered to be nutritionally essential in humans. Chronic (long-term) exposure to high levels of manganese by inhalation in humans may result in central nervous system (CNS) effects. Visual reaction time, hand steadiness, and eye- hand coordination were affected in chronically-exposed workers. A syndrome named manganism may result from chronic exposure to higher levels; manganism is characterized by feelings of weakness and lethargy, tremors, a mask-like face, and psychological disturbances. Respiratory effects have also been noted in workers chronically exposed to manganese bearing particles by inhalation. Please Note: The main sources of information for this fact sheet are the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registrys (ATSDRs) Toxicological Profile for Manganese (1) and the EPAs Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). (3) Uses • Metallic manganese is used primarily in steel production to improve hardness, stiffness, and strength. It is also used in carbon steel, stainless steel, and high-temperature steel, along with cast iron and superalloys. (1) • Manganese compounds have a variety of uses. Manganese dioxide is used in the production of dry-cell batteries, matches, fireworks, and the production of other manganese compounds. (1) • Manganese chloride is used as a catalyst in the chlorination of organic compounds, in animal feed, and in dry-cell batteries, while manganese sulfate is used as a fertilizer, livestock nutritional supplement, in glazes and varnishes, and in ceramics. (1) • Potassium permanganate is used for water purification purposes in water and waste-treatment plants. (1) Source