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 water, as well as emissions by industry. The EPA has passed laws to limit the use and release of benzene to keep levels as low as possible. Regulations set by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, in association with the EPA, limit workplace exposure to a maximum of one part benzene per million parts air (ppm), averaged over an eighthour workday.
Further, congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1974 requiring the EPA to determine safe levels of chemicals in drinking water. Subsequently, benzene's level was set to zero.
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 -
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 … 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
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