Benzene Workplace

Benzene is a very dangerous chemical due to its toxicity that has led the Department of Health and Human Services to classify it as a human carcinogen, meaning that benzene can cause leukemia and cancer if they have experienced exposure to benzene at a high enough level and duration. Whenever benzene can be substituted, which it can be in almost all operations that benzene is used as a solvent, these precautions should be taken. Prior to handling benzene it is essential that all requirements and measures are being followed and are instituted. Closed handling systems for processes that involve using benzene should be enforced.

Any persons not authorized to work with benzene should not be exposed to the carcinogenic chemical because they have not yet received the proper training regarding benzene's hazards and how to safely handle it. If there are any emergency or maintenance workers, as well as any other potential workers, who may come across benzene, they should be told how to properly handle it and advised of its potential hazards.

Any benzene that is released should be immediately reported and a respirator should be put on and evacuate the area. Any work place that contains benzene in any processes or products should have emergency equipment to readily available. When employees are told about the dangers and risks of benzene they should also be taught the typical signs and symptoms of benzene poisoning and first aid procedures so that immediate steps can be taken if signs of benzene induced illness has ensued. Any benzene illnesses should also be reported so that the company is aware of the hazards.

Benzene is very flammable so all sources of ignition should be kept away from it. Ventilation systems, equipment, and electrical systems in the surrounding area where the benzene is handled should be properly set up so that it cannot become a hazardous situation. Containment devices should be maintained at appropriate airflow and negative pressure and checked regularly. Benzene should be used in a well-ventilated area and kept away from materials that may react with them.

The proper warning sings should be put in place to alert workers of the possible exposure to benzene. Access doors to the area containing benzene should not be open while the material is present and/or being handled. Work surfaces that have exposure to benzene should be ones easy to decontaminate. Air or water systems should not be contaminated with benzene at any time, so vacuum lines should be kept protected from benzene.

If you have been exposed to benzene at the workplace and would like more information, please contact us.

Reducing Benzene Risk In the Workplace

• Immediately change out of work clothing that may have been contaminated by benzene.
• Work clothing exposed to benzene should be cleaned only by those informed of the risks and hazards of benzene. Workers should not take the contaminated clothing home to expose family members.
• Employers should have eye wash fountains provided in case of emergencies.
• Immediate skin contact should be washed or showered in order to remove the human carcinogen. The employer should provide emergency shower facilities.
• All workers with possible benzene exposure should immediately wash the areas that may have been exposed.
• Any food or drink ingestion, as well as smoking, should be completely avoided in areas benzene is handled, processed, or stored. The dangerous chemical can be swallowed so hands should be thoroughly washed prior to eating, drinking, smoking, or using the bathroom.