Argon lasers are used in hospitals
The chemical element argon is a noble, or inert, gas and is the third-most common gas in air behind oxygen and nitrogen. Identified in 1894, it was the first noble gas to be discovered. The most common use of argon is to create an inert atmosphere in a chamber. For example, the U.S. Constitution is kept in an argon atmosphere so the more reactive elements do not have an adverse effect on the paper. It is also used in medicine in the form of a laser to destroy cancerous cells. It is not hazardous on its own, but if it is not treated properly, it can be dangerous.
Asphyxiation
Argon is not a breathable gas, so if a person is left in an argon-filled chamber, they would die of suffocation. These conditions do not really exist, but as it is used in some industrial processes, there have been some reported cases of respiratory illness caused by exposure to argon.
Flammable
As it is inert, argon does not react with anything, so it is not flammable in itself. However, it is a gas and must be transported in pressurized containers. These can be combustible if not treated properly. This is a hazard of all compressed gases.
Pressurized Argon
When a gas is pressurized, it appears to be incredibly cold. If the gas is released accidentally and the stream of argon comes into contact with a person's skin, it may cause frostbite.
Medical Complications
Argon beam coagulators are used to stop internal bleeding. The ECRI Institute compiled a report regarding their use after a patient died in 1994 and has since limited the flow of argon used in these machines. It was believed the argon displaced carbon dioxide in the body, causing a gas embolism.
Conclusions
On the whole, argon is not dangerous or hazardous because it is inert and will not react with anything. The main problems are overexposure and transportation, which is true of almost all gases.
