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Benzene causes many workplace injuries

Occupational exposure to benzene is the highest risk for long-term exposure to the substance. Because workers in manufacturing industries that make or use benzene are continually exposed for hours a day, they hold the most cases of exposure and death by benzene. The reason that this group is at the highest risk for exposure is because they are directly handling benzene and ingesting the chemical at a higher level than people who do not work in manufacturing industries.

The effects of long-term exposure are life threatening. Benzene, according to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is a known carcinogenic to humans. The major effect benzene has is in the blood. Benzene causes a decrease in red blood cells and is linked to various cancers, particularly leukemia. However, it also affects the respiratory system, immune system, which can lead to infections, and can cause skin irritations. More specifically, benzene causes cancer of blood-forming organs (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry).

How can a manufacturing worker protect his or herself from the deadly effects of benzene? Because these work environments are riddled with benzene, the EPA has set a maximum amount of permissible benzene in workplace air for a single work shift. This amount is low since the benzene exposure is constant throughout the workday. It would benefit the worker to know the approved maximum amount, and verify that the work environment is following these standards set by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In addition to this, it is important that the employer marks hazardous areas where benzene is processed and stored with appropriate signage.

Safety measures can ease workplace injuries

Clean, protective clothing should be available to workers daily. This includes clothing such as suits, gloves, footwear and, head protective gear that is solvent resistant. Also, respirators should be available and used by workers who directly handle benzene. Wearing goggles is also important while working with benzene for eye protection; wearing contact lenses is not recommended. If benzene comes in contact with the skin, immediately wash area and seek medical attention.

Besides wearing the proper clothing, it is important for manufacturing employees to be educated on properly handling benzene and know the risks when working with the chemical. Employers should have informational material readily available for their employees and have educational training on proper procedures.

An Adler workplace injury lawyer can help

Working with benzene is a risky business; however, industries that make or use benzene employ a large amount of people. Because of this, there will always be the risk of exposure to those who work with benzene. If you are at risk for benzene exposure due to your occupation, make sure your work environment follows regulations set by the EPA and OSHA and that your employer offers the proper clothing, education, and training.

If you feel your work environment is not following standards, seek out medical attention for exposure, and then seek legal counsel from Jim S. Adler & Associates if you have suffered from exposure. Fill out our online form for a free case review, and let an Adler workplace injury lawyer help you launch your recovery.

DISCLAIMER: Although licensed to practice law in Texas, Jim S. Adler & Associates, with principal offices located at 3D/International Tower, 1900 West Loop South, 20th Floor, Houston, Texas 77027, also works as necessary with outside counsel and local attorneys to litigate claims in these other states:

Additionally, Jim S. Adler & Associates has offices at City Place Building, 2711 North Haskell Ave., Suite 2100 LB40, Dallas, Texas 75204-2887; San Pedro Plaza, 7330 San Pedro Ave., Suite 700, San Antonio, Texas 78216-6237; and Bank of America, 12605 East Freeway, Suite 400, Houston, Texas 77015-5619 (serving Channelview, Texas).