Because Expericence Matters

Benzene

The chemical benzene is a clear, colorless, flammable liquid that can be found in rubbers, plastics, resins, and synthetic fabrics, among other things. Benzene is a carcinogen or a substance that is known to cause cancer. The human carcinogen has been associated with various types of leukemia cancers when there is a high level of exposure to the chemical. Benzene has been strictly regulated by the federal government and the Environmental Protection Agency because of the high risks correlated with exposure to the carcinogen.

Benzene has been determined by the Environmental Protection Agency as a highly poisonous substance. The Safe Drinking Water Act of 1974, enacted to regulate safe levels of chemicals in water, determined that the safe level of benzene in water is zero. Even minimal amounts of benzene exposure can result in serious health complications such as anemia, immune system depression and nervous system disorders. High levels of exposure to benzene can cause rapid heart rate, dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, unconsciousness, vomiting, and even death, among other things. Leukemia cancer has been found in cases of five or more years of benzene exposure.

Benzene exposure can occur in many different ways. Low levels can be found in tobacco smoke, industrial emissions and car exhaust, while higher levels can be present at gas stations and waste sites. Water can also be contaminated by benzene through underground storage and hazardous waste sites. Industrial work places are often at risk of higher levels of benzene exposure.

The chemical benzene poses the greatest risks to workers who are exposed to petroleum solvents. Despite the fact that benzene has been banned as a solvent in the US for years, it is still present in many petroleum solvents. Though exposure to benzene has been regulated and limited, workers can still be exposed to detrimental levels of the chemical through inhalation and absorption through the skin. Workers most at risk for benzene exposure include painters, gasoline distributors, printers, rubber workers, chemical workers, paper manufacturers, newspaper press workers, pesticide manufacturers, and leather makers.

Benzene, though banned by US safety regulations, still poses a significant risk to workers. While low levels alone can cause serious health complications, high levels of benzene exposure can result in deadly health conditions. The EPA and the federal government have enacted strict regulations regarding the legal amount of exposure to the toxic substance in the work place. These regulations were designed to improve health standards and prevent hazardous work conditions.

Unfortunately, not all companies and organizations properly comply with federal regulations and are still exposing their workers to fatal amounts of benzene. If benzene has adversely affected you, or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering. Please contact us to speak with a qualified benzene attorney at Miller and Associates to learn more about your legal rights and options.

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