Benzene
Colorless liquid with a sweet odor that is used in the production of other chemicals, as an industrial solvent, and as an additive in gasoline. Benzene is a member of a class of chemicals called BTEX, which are among the most abundantly produced chemicals in the world, notably created and used in petroleum processing and the production of consumer goods. It is readily volatile, thus all routes of exposure (ingestion, inhalation and dermal) are relevant if one is exposed via drinking water. The EPA has determined that benzene is a known human carcinogen by all routes of exposure. It has various noncancer health impacts as well, including to the immune and hematological systems.
Health Guideline Level (HGL)
0 ppb
Maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest science
Health Effects
Prolonged exposure to concentrations of benzene above EPA drinking water standards can result in anemia, a decrease in blood platelets and an increased risk of cancer. The most sensitive noncancer endpoints of benzene exposure, as shown in limited studies in humans and animal studies, are hematotoxicity and immunotoxicity with bone marrow as the main target organ. Human and animal studies also show that benzene is genotoxic. Additionally, animal studies provide evidence for developmental impacts and impacts on the male reproductive system. People exposed to high concentrations of benzene in the air display symptoms of headaches, weakness and lethargy.
Affected Organs & Systems:
Common Sources
- Gas emissions from volcanoes and forest fires release benzene into the environment
- Main anthropogenic sources of benzene in the environment are industrial processes, though emissions from burning coal and oil, benzene waste and storage operations, motor vehicle exhaust, and evaporation from gas stations increase the concentration of benzene in the air
- Primary sources of benzene in water are atmospheric deposition, discharges of industrial waste, spills of petroleum products (including leaking underground storage tanks), and leachate from landfills
How to Remove It
Water filters certified under the following NSF standards are effective at removing Benzene:
Health Guideline Level
The HGL represents the maximum level that poses minimal health risk based on the latest scientific research. It's often more protective than federal legal limits.
Contaminant Type
Benzene is classified as a Petroleum Compounds contaminant.
This contaminant primarily affects the immune-system, carcinogens, and other systems.
Check Your Water
Find out if Benzene is in your tap water.
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