The D-gun atomises the powder feedstock into extremely small particles (80–95% of particles by total number are of size <100 nm). This means proper extraction facilities are required for inhalation safety purposes. Also isolation of the D-gun is recommended to avoid operators breathing in the dangerous dust and fumes. If operators are to enter the room they should wear appropriate dust masks or respirators. Many of the compounds used as the feedstock in detonation spraying are detrimental to human health if ingested or inhaled.  Airborne metals from the detonation gun in particular are harmful to the lungs. Exposure to cadmium for example can cause harm to the kidneys and lungs, vomiting, loss of consciousness and even reduced fertility. Also heavy metals have been shown in recent studies to be carcinogenic such as lead, nickel, chromium, and cadmium. Some serious lung conditions caused by metal dust inhalation include:
* Silicosis - a lung disease cause by inhaling silica present in the feedstock compounds.
* Siderosis - (silver polishers lung or welders lung), a lung disease cause by inhaling iron present in the feedstock compounds.
* Alzheimer's - a memory loss disease more common among the elderly has been shown by some studies to be caused by high levels of exposure to aluminum (among many other causes). However, it must be noted that these studies were not conclusive, and others have proven otherwise.
* Metal fume fever - this can occur in some individuals following exposure certain metal compounds (such as copper, zinc, magnesium and aluminum alloys or oxides) that have a particularly unpleasant odour. The fumes are caused as a byproduct when the metals are heated and can trigger a fever-like reaction that may need medical attention.