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Benzene - C6H6

This page presents information on benzene (C6H6): properties, toxicity, effects on health, appropriate detection means - personal benzene monitor or fixed benzene gas detector - and proper respiratory protective equipment (gas mask or powered air purifying respirator with an A gas filter).

Benzene (C6H6) properties

Benzene (C6H6) is a volatile organic compound from monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. It composes fuels at 1%, particularly unleaded gasoline. It is also applied in other sectors like perfumeries as a solvent or in chemical industries as a synthesis intermediate for a large range of chemical products (rubber, solvent, food additives).

CAS TWA (8 hours) STEL (15 minutes) LEL IP Density / Air Filter / Air
71-43-2 1.0 ppm 5.0 ppm 1.2 % 9.24 eV 2.7 A

Benzene effects on health

The IARC* classified benzene as a category 1 carcinogenic agent (R45/49). This substance may also cause heritable genetic damage (R46). When ingested or inhaled, this organic compound is harmful to the breathing tracts – particularly dangerous for lungs (R65) but also for the eyes (R36) as well. In case of prolonged exposure, ingestion, inhalation or contact with the skin, benzene can lead to severe consequences on health (R48/23/24/25).

*IARC: International Agency for Research on Cancer (depends on WHO World Health Organization)

 

Benzene effects on health - C6H6 exposure and toxicity chart

Benzene effects on health (C6H6)

Benzene gas detector ( C6H6 )

Despite being detectable through smell, only a benzene monitor can accurately measure concentrations of this gas. Moreover, even if benzene is explosive at 1.2 % volume, LEL detection would be pointless with this highly toxic gas. Ppb or ppm benzene detection is more relevant.
For calibration and gas testing of your fixed or portable gas detectors, benzene name calibration gas cylinders are available.

Benzene respiratory protection (C6H6)

As benzene is irritating to the eyes, it is recommended to use a full face mask for short interventions or a much more comfortable powered air purifying respirator equipped with an A filter. If concentrations exceed 60 times the OEL, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required.