Benzene Exposure

People can be exposed to benzene from a number of sources. Spills, leaks, and other accidental releases can significantly impact the surrounding environment and community. Although it also occurs naturally, most of the benzene in the environment is a byproduct of human activities. Industrial uses of benzene, including the manufacturing of plastics, detergents, and resins, make the release of benzene-containing vapors more prevalent.

Other sources of benzene exposure include automobile exhaust, hazardous waste areas, cigarette smoke, paint fumes, and forest fires.

Although most people are exposed to small amounts of benzene on an occasional basis, people who live or work near manufacturing facilities in which benzene is used are at highest risk for benzene-related illnesses.

Benzene can enter be present in air, water, or food. People breathe in benzene-containing air while pumping gas, using paint or furniture polish, and smoking cigarettes. Workers in manufacturing plants that use benzene are the most likely to inhale significant amounts of benzene. Water can become polluted with benzene after accidental spills or leaks in underground storage containers. Contaminated water is dangerous both when it is imbibed and when it is used for showering or bathing (because benzene can be absorbed by the skin). People can also be exposed to benzene by eating tainted food, although his is the least common source of exposure.

Benzene Exposure Tests

Blood, breath, and urine tests can measure the levels of benzene in the body shortly after exposure. However, none of these tests can be counted on for complete accuracy. Benzene exposure levels may be underestimated by breath and blood tests because benzene exits the body fairly quickly. The urine test, which measures levels of metabolites, can be unreliable because benzene is not the only chemical that causes them to form.

• Benzene Associated Diseases
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