Benzene Surveillance

Most benzene is produced from the refining of petroleum and is common in the production of styrene and a wide range of synthetic rubbers, plastics and resins. Benzene is also used in the synthesis of phenols, alkyl benzene detergent base materials, cyclohexane and other solvents.

Acute exposure to benzene affects the central nervous system, with some irritation of eyes, nose, throat and skin also occurring.

Short-term exposure produces symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, headaches and weakness. At higher concentrations, euphoria and eventual unconsciousness will result from prolonged exposure. At massive concentrations, respiratory collapse and death will occur within minutes.

Chronic exposure to benzene affects the blood forming system, particularly the bone marrow. Exposure may adversely affect red cells, white cells and platelets, reducing the number of one or all of these cells in the blood and or changing their structure. Red cells carry oxygen and nutrients to body tissues and a reduced red cell count is characterized as anaemia. White blood cells are one of the body’s defence mechanisms against disease, and a reduced white cell count adversely affects this defence mechanism. Platelets help blood clot, and excessive uncontrolled bleeding may result when there is a shortage of these elements in the blood.

Benzene exposure may also induce the onset of leukemia (cancerous blood cells).

Workplaces where benzene exposure may occur encompass the production and usage of benzenes itself and the usage and distribution of products that may contain benzene.

Major petroleum refiners and petrochemical producers who have facilities to synthesize and extract benzene from petroleum produce benzene. Benzene is also produced as a component of light oil by-product from metallurgical coke production at the major integrated steel making operations.

Benzene testing is often done at the same time as testing for vinyl chloride.