Effects of Chronic or Repeated Exposure

Benzene is believed to cause cancer. Exposure to elevated levels of benzene results in harmful effects on blood and bone marrow. Many experimental animal studies also suggest that exposure to benzene increases a person's risk of cancer in multiple organ systems.

The major effect of long-term exposure to benzene is on the blood. Chronic exposure to 10 ppm or more of airborne benzene has been associated with leukemia, which is cancer of the blood. Chronic benzene exposure in the workplace has also been associated with a range of other blood disorders, including low platelet counts, absence of red blood cells, and loss of all types of blood cells due to bone marrow damage. Many of the blood disorders associated with benzene exposure may occur without symptoms.

Other adverse health effects from long-term exposure to benzene include fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, loss of weight, and weakness. Repeated exposure can cause chronic headaches, drowsiness, and nervousness.

To learn more about Benzene Safety visit our Cal/OSHA Benzene Safety Online Training web page.