1.      Process

Use of benzene in a laboratory environment.

2.      Physical hazards

q       Flammable

q       Incompatibilities and reactivities: strong oxidizers or strong acids.

3.      Health Hazards

q       Carcinogen.

q       Chronic exposure by inhalation may result in various blood disorders (anemia, leukemia).

q       Symptoms of acute exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, nausea or intoxication.

q       May irritate eyes, nose and respiratory tract.

q       Benzene can be absorbed through the skin and may cause dermatitis.

4.      Personal Protective Equipment

q       EYE PROTECTION

·          Safety glasses, goggles or face shields shall be worn during operations in which benzene might contact the eyes (e.g., through vapors or splashes of solution). 

·          Ordinary (street) prescription glasses do not provide adequate protection.  Adequate safety glasses must meet the requirements of the Practice for Occupational Education Eye and Face Protection (ANSI Z87.1-1989) and must be equipped with side shields. 

·          Fisherbrand® Chemical Splash Goggles, catalog # 19-041-739 are recommended.

·          Contact lenses should not be worn if the potential exists for Benzene exposure.

q       HAND PROTECTION

·          Use of Cobra™ Viton® Chemical Resistant Gloves are recommended for use with Benzene from Lab Safety Supply Catalogue # 2BD-86549.

q       LAB COATS, ETC.

·          Lab coats, close toed shoes and long sleeved clothing shall be worn when handling benzene. Protective clothing shall be worn to prevent any possibility of skin contact with benzene.

q       SAFETY SHOWER/EYEWASH 

·          Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to benzene, suitable facilities for quick drench or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use. 

·          Bottle type eyewash stations are not acceptable.

5.      Designated Area for Use and Containment Devices

q       All benzene work shall be done in the laboratory fume hood.

q       The fume hood’s sash must be in the position where a face velocity of 100 feet per minute is achieved.

q       Laboratory or other use area shall be marked as follows:

Danger

Benzene

Cancer Hazard

Flammable - No Smoking

Authorized Personnel Only

6.      Special Handling Procedures and Storage Requirements

q       Keep away from ignition sources.

q       Wash hands thoroughly after use.

q       Spill-X-S Kit must be available in the event of a liquid spill less than 300 cc, and is available through Lab Safety Supply, catalogue # 2BD-14628.

7.      Waste Disposal

Excess benzene and all waste material containing benzene must be placed in an unbreakable secondary container labeled with the following "HAZARDOUS WASTE BENZENE ". Full containers of benzene waste must be disposed of according to WFUHS EH&S Hazardous Waste Program.

8.      Decontamination of Equipment and Area

Contact WFUHS EH&S at 716-1221 for decontamination information.

9.      Spill and Accident Procedures

In the event of a liquid spill greater than 300 cc, immediately vacate and secure the area.  Contact WFUBMC Security at 716-9111.