Benzene
Benzene is a chemical converted into many substances and polymers used to
create everyday products like clothing, paints, windows, plywood, and compact
discs. Benzene, as it exists in these products, is harmless. However, Benzene
in chemical form ranks among the top ten on the CERCLA Hazardous Substance List.
Every year, more than 300,000 Americans are exposed to the chemical toxin
Benzene. As a result of this exposure, more than 10,000 deaths occur in the
United States each year.
Benzene has been linked to a number of debilitating side effects. Benzene is a
carcinogen that is capable of forming multiple types of cancer in humans,
including Leukemia. Inhaling Benzene vapors can cause immediate death and other
exposures to the chemical have been linked to reproductive harm and aplastic
anemia. Short-term exposure has been linked to irritation of the eyes, skin,
nose, and throat, dizziness, nausea, convulsions, and even death. 6. Rapid
heart beat 7. Sudden death
People working in industries that make or use Benzene may be exposed to the
highest levels of the chemical. Painters, chemical workers, gasoline
distributors, refinery workers, printers, newspaper press workers, and those
employed in the rubber, pesticides, paper, and adhesives industries are often
the most at risk due to the high levels of Benzene found in the products with
which they work. Respirators, gloves, and safety clothing can reduce, but cannot
eliminate, the threat of Benzene exposure.
Though many instances of exposure occur in the workplace, Benzene exposure is
not merely an occupational hazard. Outdoor air contains detectable levels of
Benzene from tobacco smoke, gas station emissions, automobile exhaust, and
industrial pollution. The presence of glues, paints, furniture wax, and
detergents may lead to the presence of higher levels of Benzene in indoor air.
Significant levels of Benzene are found in tobacco smoke, thus smokers and those
in the immediate area of smokers are at a high risk of exposure. Not
surprisingly, the atmosphere around service stations and hazardous waste sites
will generally contain significant levels of Benzene. Seepage from underground
storage tanks, garbage dumps, or from hazardous waste sites can result in
Benzene contamination of well water.
Despite the hazardous nature of this substance, Benzene continues to be produced
in record volumes. If you or a loved one has been injured due to exposure to
Benzene and you would like to learn more about your rights, contact Saladino Oakes & Schaaf
now at (270) 444-0406 or Toll Free: 800-564-4238 or CLICK
HERE TO SUBMIT A CASE FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge and,
if we agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis. Don't
delay! You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries but this right
could be eliminated if your lawsuit is not filed before the statute of
limitation expires.
The above is not legal advice. That can only come from a qualified attorney
who is familiar with all the facts and circumstances of a particular, specific
case and the relevant law. See Terms
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