Benzene Awareness Safety Program

Chapter Section

Benzene or benzyl is an organic chemical compound.  It is colorless and a highly flammable liquid with a sweet smell and a relatively high melting point.  It is carcinogenic and its use as an additive in gasoline is now limited, but it is an important industrial solvent as specified in 1910.1028 App. A and 1910.1028 App. B.  Benzene is a petrochemical derivative present in small quantities and most frequently encountered in gasoline and solvents.  Significant potential for exposure to benzene exists primarily in refinery work, although any manufacturing facility using solvents may have benzene present. Benzene liquid is highly flammable and vapors may form explosive mixtures in air.  Fire extinguishers must be readily available.  Smoking is prohibited in areas where   Benzene is used or stored.  1910.1028 App. A.   If Your company name here is responsible for establishing a regulated area, it should have signs posted at all access points and be clearly marked with barricade tape.  The boundaries should be established with a direct reading instrument whenever possible, otherwise judgment must be used.  Access must be limited to authorized personnel.  At a minimum, authorized personnel will have received benzene hazard training and fit testing on any protective equipment they are required to wear.