In the 14th edition of the Report on Carcinogens, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2016) identified several new compounds that pose occupational health risks. Among them are cobalt and cobalt compounds.
Industrial plants and metal workshops that utilize cobalt or cobalt compounds can release it into the air and soil. Sources of cobalt-containing compounds are many, such as magnets, grinding and cutting tools, pigments, paints, colored glass, surgical implants, and batteries.
Working or living near sites that utilize these compounds increases risk for health problems. Of particular concern are sites located in NY, NJ and Connecticut.