Benzene, a clear, volatile liquid with an acrid, aromatic odor, is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals. It is a constituent by-product in gasoline, and it is used as an industrial solvent and as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of a variety of materials. Benzene can be found in dyes, plastics, insecticides, and many other materials and products. It is generally not present in household products.

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   Mechanism of toxicity. Like other hydrocarbons, benzene can cause a chemical pneumonia if it is aspirated. See Hydrocarbons for a general discussion of hydrocarbon toxicity.

   
   
   
   
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      Once absorbed, benzene causes CNS depression and may sensitize the myocardium to the arrhythmogenic effects of catecholamines.

      
      
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      Benzene is also known for its chronic effects on the hematopoietic system, which are thought to be mediated by a reactive toxic intermediate metabolite.

      
      
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      Benzene is a known human carcinogen (ACGIH Category Al, IARC Group 1).

   
   
   
   
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   Toxic dose. Benzene is absorbed rapidly by inhalation and ingestion and, to a limited extent, percutaneously.

   
   
   
   
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      Acute ingestion of 2 mL may produce neurotoxicity, and as little as 15 mL has caused death.

      
      
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      The recommended workplace limit (ACGIH TLV-TWA) for benzene vapor is 0.5 ppm (1.6 mg/m3

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