Benzene danger Information
Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon that is produced by the burning of natural products. It is a component of products derived from coal and petroleum and is found in gasoline and other fuels. Benzene is used in the manufacture of plastics, detergents, pesticides, and other chemicals. Research has shown benzene to be a carcinogen (cancer causing). With exposures from less than five years to over 30 years, individuals have developed, and died from, leukemia. Long-term exposure may affect bone marrow and blood production. A lot of workers are unaware of the potential dangers in their
work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to injury. Short-term exposure to high levels of benzene can cause drowsiness, dizziness, unconsciousness, and death.
As A lot of as 238,000 people may be work-relatedly exposed to benzene in the USA. Individuals employed in industries that make or use benzene may be exposed to the highest levels of benzene. These industries include benzene production (petrochemicals, petroleum refining, and coke and coal chemical manufacturing), rubber tire manufacturing, and storage or transport of benzene and petroleum products containing benzene. Other workers who may be exposed to benzene because of their occupations include steel workers, printers, rubber workers, shoe makers, laboratory technicians, firefighters, and gas station workers.
Exposure to benzene is controlled by limiting evaporation and preventing splashes and spills. Where exposures may occur, the preferred controls, are engineering controls such as the use of hoods, canopies, and proper ventilation coordinated with the use of Personal safety equipment. For instances where engineering controls are not feasible, respirators and similar Personal safety equipment may be used.
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