On April 28, 2007, World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the World Health Organization (WHO) called for several measures to help prevent work-related cancer. Among these measures was to “introduce benzene-free organic solvents and technologies that convert the carcinogenic chromium into a non-carcinogenic form.”
Benzene is a known carcinogen which causes many health problems including:
- Leukemia
- Blood disorders
- Respiratory problems
- Skin problems
- Hodgkin’s disease
- Other cancers
Among its many applications, benzene is used in:
- Pesticides
- Rubber
- Detergents
- Solvents
- Cigarettes
- Denture adhesives
- Dyes
- Paint
- Synthetic fibers
- Resins
- Plastics
- Other petroleum products
Inhalation of vapors and absorption through the skin are the most common methods of exposure, which often leads to workplace injuries. Workers who are at high risk for benzene exposure include:
- Rubber workers
- Refinery workers
- Diamond workers
- Printers
- Painters
- Leather workers
- Gasoline distributors
- Chemical workers
Benzene can cause immediate poisoning, or slow, long-term harm.
