Exposure to the harmful metal, which can cause illness and cancer in cases of chronic contact, can be more easily monitored by workers and supervisors with a new OSHA online endeavor.

Cadmium, a soft, silver metal, can cause weakness, fever, headaches, and other symptoms, even causing kidney damage and cancer of the lung or prostate in cases of extended exposure. The metal is often used in “metal machining, plastics, ceramics, painting and welding operations,” according to OSHA. It may also be present in plants that manufacture batteries, coatings, and plastics.

“The cadmium advisor is primarily intended for use by experienced medical professionals who assess workers' cadmium exposure. It may also be useful as an educational tool for workers and members of the general public by providing information on what constitutes overexposure to cadmium and what to do to prevent exposure on the job,” OSHA said on its website.