Benzene occurs naturally in crude oil and refined gasoline. It is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor that is used in the production of paint, solvents and adhesives. Benzene can irritate skin on contact and can be dangerous and even fatal if ingested. Benzene vapor is carcinogenic and is inhaled intentionally by smoking cigarettes or unintentionally in the form of vapors around gas pumps.
Effects of Benzine Inhalation
Inhalation of benzine can cause dizziness or drowsiness and can increase heart rate. A person suffering from severe exposure to benzene vapor may also experience tremors, unconsciousness and even death. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates benzene in the workplace and has set an exposure limit of one part per million in an eight-hour period. Benzene inhalation should be treated with removal to fresh air. If breathing has stopped, artificial respiration should be given, and if breathing remains difficult, oxygen should be administered.
Effects of Benzene on Skin
On contact with skin, benzene may cause redness, irritation and sores. The Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York recommends immediate removal of any contaminated clothing after exposure and flushing the skin with large amounts of water for up to 15 minutes, as well as prompt attention from a doctor.
Effects of Benzine Ingestion
Benzene may contaminate food or water and, if ingested, can be dangerous. The Maryland School of Nursing Environmental Health Education Center says that dizziness, nausea, vomiting and stomach irritation are common symptoms of mild benzene poisoning. Increased heart rate and unconsciousness are more serious symptoms. Anyone who has ingested benzine should contact poison control immediately and wash out his mouth with large amounts of clean water.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Facts About Benzene
- University of Maryland: Benzene Health Effects and Reducing Exposure
- University of California, Berkeley, School of Public Health: Implications of Benzene Exposure in China (PDF)
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University: Benzene Awareness Training
