How can I be exposed to benzene? Who is most likely to be at risk?
Undoubtedly, the greatest risk for high level exposure to benzene is in the workplace. Occupational exposure to benzene is likely to occur in the rubber industry, oil refineries, chemical plants, and the shoe manufacturing industry, as well as in gasoline storage, shipment, and retail stations. However, most individuals are exposed to benzene through tobacco smoke, automobile exhaust and other environmental sources such as gasoline filling stations, industrial emissions, and food products that contain benzene naturally. Indoor exposure can result from glues, paints, furniture wax, adhesives and detergents.
In addition, certain industries may release benzene into the surrounding air. These include ethyl benzene and styrene production facilities, petroleum refineries, chemical manufacturing plants, and recovery plants for coke oven byproducts. Leakage from underground storage tanks or from hazardous waste sites containing benzene can also result in the contamination of well water.
Other Benzene Exposure FAQs
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What is benzene, and what is it used for?
Benzene is a clear, colorless and highly flammable aromatic liquid that evaporates quickly into the air, and can dissolve in water. It is formed from both … more -
Are there health hazards to benzene exposure, i.e. can benzene cause cancer?
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that benzene is a human carcinogen, and can cause various forms of cancer from prolonged … more -
Is benzene regulated by the U.S. government?
Yes. Because of the dangerous health effects benzene exposure is known to cause, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency now regulates benzene in the air and … more -
Do I have legal rights if I have been occupationally exposed to benzene?
Yes. Despite being banned as a solvent in the U.S. for over twenty years, and the decrease of benzene in other manufactured products, workers continue to be … more
