Benzene Hazards

Benzene, which is a chemical found in gasoline and other fuels, poses a serious respiratory hazard to workers in the oil and gas extraction industry. For example, in one study, air samples were taken in an area where workers were gauging flowback tanks. The benzene present exceeded the recommended exposure limits (REL) in 15 of the 17 samples.

Not only is benzene highly toxic when it is inhaled, but it is also highly toxic when it is absorbed in the skin or splashed into a worker's eyes. Benzene is a known carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) and mutagen (substance that causes genetic mutation). In addition to these health hazards, benzene is a safety hazard. It is a highly flammable liquid and a dangerous fire hazard. In a container, benzene may produce poisonous gases that could explode during a fire.

OSHA, NIOSH, and the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) have established the workplace exposure limits for airborne benzene shown in the following table. Any amount of benzene absorbed in the skin is likely an overexposure. Furthermore, scientists and medical researchers suggest that there may be NO safe level of exposure to known carcinogens. Avoiding contact with benzene in any form is the best means to protect human health.

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