10.2 MSDS and TOXNET

The chemical that I selected from the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) was Benzene. Benzene in its pure form is a colorless liquid that has a sweet odor and can occur naturally. Some Benzene sources include emissions from forest fires, volcanoes, gasoline, and cigarette smoke. Benzene is extremely reactive and flammable. Plastics, rubbers, paints, pesticides, detergents, furniture wax and even synthetic fibers have all been found to contain large quantities of Benzene. 

            Short exposure to high levels of Benzene in the air can cause in rapid heart rate, dizziness, unconsciousness, and tremors. Long-term exposure to Benzene is linked to anemia, Leukemia, weaken the immune system, and cause harmful effects on the bone marrow. If Benzene is consumed in large quantities in food and/or liquids it can cause stomach irritation, vomiting, convulsions, coma, and even death. 

            Benzene has sufficient evidence in animals and human beings of being a carcinogenic risk. Benzene has been classified as a “known” human carcinogen under the Risk Assessment Guidelines of 1986 due to all of the routes of exposure based on human and animal studies that support this claim. 

            When working in an environment where there is a potential risk of being exposed to Benzene, one should wear personal protective equipment such as splash goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, boots, and suits. A self-contained respiratory apparatus is highly recommended when there is a possibility of Benzene exposure through the air. Avoiding specific environments where Benzene can be present should be avoided if possible.

            The Benzene chemical be found in a workplaces, homes, and public places including gas stations and designated smoking areas. Until now, I was unaware that the Benzene chemical existed, let alone how often it is used and the magnitude in which it is used. The Benzene chemical can be found in the air, water, plastic, and even our everyday household items we use. Unfortunately, I did not receive any training or education regarding this chemical and the risks associated to its exposure.