Benzene Contamination

Benzene contamination occurs when benzene enters substances that don''t ordinarily contain it, like drinking water. Levels of benzene contamination vary according to concentration. OSHA''s acceptable exposure level is 1 ppm. Still, even low-level benzene contamination raises health concerns, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health suggests benzene contamination levels in the air not exceed 0.1 ppm. A major source of benzene contamination is runoff from industrial sites where the benzene seeps into the ground, contaminating soil and groundwater. Benzene contamination continues when the benzene evaporates, creating harmful vapors. Vapors from household products can cause benzene contamination, as well. Furniture wax, paints, glues, and detergents all emit benzene. Benzene contamination of beverages can happen during the bottling process because plastics contain benzene. Manufactured sources of benzene contamination are only one type; there are also natural causes. Volcanoes and forest fires produce benzene contamination since benzene is a natural by-product of the burning process. Other natural sources of benzene contamination include crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke. Some areas that are prone to benzene contamination are easily identified: air around hazardous waste sites and gas stations contains higher benzene levels. Benzene contamination can lead to serious diseases, including rare types of cancer. In addition, exposure to benzene contamination causes immediate effects including drowsiness, dizziness, and unconsciousness. Benzene contamination in food or water can also cause vomiting, stomach irritation, convulsions, and even death. While benzene contamination causes serious long-term health issues, benzene itself disappears rapidly from the blood. If benzene contamination is suspected, the individual exposed should be tested as soon as possible for exposure. Benzene contamination of air or soil can be easily detected using the proper environmental monitoring equipment.

Benzene Breaking News

"Unsafe Benzene Exposure in Alabama"

A recent study conducted by the Conservation Alabama Foundation (CAF) has found that four of Alabama's largest cities contain highly polluted air, including high levels of benzene. Amo...

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"Petrochem Companies' Products Contact Benzene"

Texas couple Jan and James Callihan filed a lawsuit against six petrochemical companies, claiming the products the defendants produce and distribute exposed James to unsafe levels of benzene. They allege this exposure is what caused J...

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"Mayor of Houston to Fight Benzene Emissions"

Three-term Houston Mayor Bill White has recently found a creative way to try to force certain industries into making changes that would reduce their excessive benzene emissions – by interfering with the renewal of their operating permits.

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Benzene Contamination

Benzene Breaking News

"Unsafe Benzene Exposure in Alabama"

"Petrochem Companies' Products Contact Benzene"

"Mayor of Houston to Fight Benzene Emissions"

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