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Benzene Issues in the Summer

Benzene is a toxic chemical. It occurs naturally in the environment but is also a byproduct of car exhaust and tobacco smoke. It is also created when burning coal or oil. Occasionally, tap water can be contaminated with benzene. A short over-exposure to benzene can cause headaches, dizziness and sleepiness. Prolonged exposure can cause blood and reproductive disorders.

  1. Summer Considerations

    • In the summer, people drive more and are outside more. The increased driving can create atmospheric levels of benzene to spike. When outside, people are more likely to inhale fumes from gas stations and second-hand smoke. An unusual source of summer benzene can be through canned soft drinks stored in a warm garage. Exposure to heat and light can cause the ascorbic acid to react with the preservative, sodium benzoate, in soft drinks to form benzene.

    Exposure Sources

    • The fumes at gas stations and from industrial solvents are common sources of elevated benzene exposure. Take care to stay in well-ventilated areas when working with any solvents on summer repair projects around the house. Any place where coal is being burned, including charcoal grills, can create elevated levels of benzene. Second-hand smoke has large amounts of benzene. Exposure to small amounts in well-ventilated areas is rarely harmful, but you should be aware of exposure in extended traffic jams, wherever there is a lot of open burning, and when surrounded by smokers.

    Symptoms

    • Besides the neurological symptoms of dizziness and headaches, benzene can also irritate the skin and upper respiratory systems. If you have blisters, rashes or redness you cannot account for, you should consider benzene as a possible irritant. Breath, blood and urine tests can determine benzene levels in people, but must be done soon after an excessive exposure. If it turns out you are suffering from benzene exposure, determine where it is coming from to eliminate the source---and the symptoms.

    Aggravating Factors

    • Summer is the season of many outside festivals and parties. Unfortunately, alcohol consumption can increase the toxicity level of benzene exposure. Fortunately, airborne benzene has the lowest level of toxic effects. When swallowed through contaminated water or beverages, the toxicity level grows. If you are not on a public water source regularly checked for toxic chemicals, you should have your water supply checked at least once a year for the presence of benzene and other potential pollutants.

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