Benzene
Exposure Protection
Again, over 300,000 people per
year are exposed to benzene and many of these people do not know
how to adequately protect themselves from the toxicity of the
chemical.
Quick
Fact Precautions:
1. A regulated, marked area should be established where Benzene
is handled, used, or stored.
2. Wear protective work clothing and respirators.
3. Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to Benzene and at
the end of the work shift.
4. Post hazard and warning information in the work area. In addition,
as part of an ongoing education and training effort, communicate
all information on the health and safety hazards of Benzene to
potentially exposed workers.
Benzene
Exposure Protection Information
The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services has released
a comprehensive study and worksheet related to benzene exposure.
We have included some of the more notable information provided
below.
Clothing
Avoid skin contact with benzene. Wear solvent-resistant gloves
and clothing. Safety equipment suppliers and manufacturers can
provide recommendations on the most protective glove/clothing
material for your operation.
All protective clothing (suits,
gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day,
and put on before work.
ACGIH recommends Butyl Neoprene,
Polyvinyl Alcohol, Silver Shield, and Viton/Neoprene as protective
materials.
Eye Protection
Wear indirect-vent, impact and splash resistant goggles when working
with liquids.
Wear a face shield along with
goggles when working with corrosive, highly irritating or toxic
substances.
Contact lenses should not be worn
when working with benzene.
Respiratory
Protection
Improper use of respirators is dangerous. Such equipment should
only be used if the employer has a written program that takes
into account workplace conditions, requirements for worker training;
respirator fit testing and medical exams, as described in OSHA
1910. 134
Where the potential exists for
exposure over 0.1 ppm, use a MSHA/NIOSH approved supplied –air
respirator with a full face piece operated in a pressure-demand
or other positive-pressure mode.
Exposure to 500 ppm is immediately
dangerous to life and health. If the possibility of 500 ppm exists,
use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self-contained breathing apparatus with
a full face piece operated in a pressure-demand or other positive
pressure mode. |
