ChemRisk was asked to perform a retrospective quantitative exposure assessment of benzene to a contract boilermaker/pipefitter who worked at oil refineries and petrochemical plants.

Published literature regarding potential benzene exposures over time was reviewed and used in the quantitative assessment. The review considered the type of facility, country, year of collection, job title, task(s), number of samples and measured concentrations.

The U.S. EPA Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) was reviewed to determine the potential for benzene emissions at various facilities and to classify the function of each facility.

As part of the assessment, an evaluation of a company’s health and safety program was performed and detailed employment records were reviewed.

Based on the literature and available information, the 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) for the duration of employment was estimated.

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Occupational exposure to benzene at the ExxonMobil refinery at Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Occupational exposure to benzene at the ExxonMobil Refinery in Baytown, TX.