Testing the Air for Benzene

Benzene is produced when gasoline, cigarettes and volcanoes burn, and it is used in a variety of plastics, lubricants and pesticides. Breathing high concentrations of benzene vapors can lead to dizziness, a fast heart rate and even death. Ongoing exposure to small amounts can cause serious health problems, such as cancer and infertility. Because of these dangers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration established short-term and long-term exposure limits at work. While many people can detect benzene's sweet odor, equipment is available to test the air to ensure OSHA's limits aren't surpassed.

Things You'll Need

• Multi-gas detector capable of monitoring benzene
• Personal benzene monitor

Show More

Instructions

Air Monitor

• 1

  Prepare to enter the area where the air needs to be tested for benzene by putting on protective gear and a personal respiratory device if a high level of benzene is suspected.

• 2

  Place the sensor in the area to be tested, and set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions. Depending on the device, you may need to install it permanently in the wall or simply hold it in your hand.

• 3

  Turn the device on, and select the option to measure benzene levels. Consult the device's documentation for exact steps. Some devices can log benzene levels over time, while others can only determine the current benzene gas concentration.

• 4

  Examine the test results to ensure the OSHA limits for benzene are not being surpassed.

Personal Monitor

• 5

  Wear a personal monitor while in the area where benzene may be present. Follow the instructions that came with the badge regarding the length of time you should wear the monitor.

• 6

  Send the badge to the laboratory for analysis. The monitor's instructions will indicate the appropriate laboratory.

• 7

  Review the analysis you receive from the laboratory.