OSHA: Intro to Benzene Hazards

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding benzene and examples of where it may be found in the workplace
• Recognizing benzene’s associated physical and health hazards
• Learning how to protect yourself and reduce exposure to benzene
• Learning first aid measures for benzene exposure

Course Description

Through this course, you will learn how to recognize benzene hazards in your workplace, protect yourself from exposure, and react if you or a coworker are suffering effects from exposure. Benzene is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature which has a sweet smell and is highly flammable. The chemical does evaporate very quickly, and its gas sinks to low-lying areas, making it easy for it to ignite. Commonly, benzene will come from volcanoes, forest fires, crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke; it is also used to make other chemicals used for plastics, resins, and nylon fibers, in addition to lubricants, rubbers, dyes, drugs, and pesticides. In short, benzene is very common across the world. It can impact your health by making cells malfunction and poisoning you. This course will teach you more about the health effects to watch out for concerning benzene so that you can protect yourself and others in the workplace.