After occupational safety procedures were put into place following the realization that the metal caused berylliosis around 1950, acute beryllium poisoning became extremely rare.

[1] Generally associated with exposure to beryllium levels at or above 100 μg/m3,[1] it produces severe cough, sore nose and throat, weight loss, labored breathing, anorexia, and increased fatigue.

[5] Metallographic preparation equipment and laboratory work surfaces must be damp-wiped occasionally to inhibit buildup of particles.

Cutting, grinding, and polishing procedures that generate dust or fumes must be handled within sufficiently vented coverings supplied with particulate filters.

[8] Acute beryllium poisoning approximately doubles the risk of lung cancer.