Benzene

Benzene is an organic compound often used in the manufacture of rubber, paint, plastics, resins, drugs, pesticides, synthetics, and other products. It is a colorless and highly flammable liquid with a sweet odor. Benzene can also be found in organic solvents, gasoline, and tobacco smoke.

In addition to manufacturing facilities, benzene can also enter the environment through spills, accidental releases, volcanic eruptions, and forest fires.

Breathing very high levels of benzene can be fatal, while high levels can result in drowsiness, dizziness, rapid heart rate, headaches, tremors, confusion, and unconsciousness. Consuming foods containing high levels of benzene can cause vomiting, irritation of the stomach, dizziness, sleepiness, convulsions, rapid heart rate, and death. Long-term (one year or longer) exposure mainly affects the blood. Benzene can negatively affect bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also lead to excessive bleeding and adverse reactions in the immune system, which increase the chance for infection.

If you believe you may have a benzene exposure case, contact us today for more information.