RISK ASSESSMENT OF BENZENE AMONG GAS STATION REFUELING WORKERS

Individuals working with benzene, and especially those exposed to it over a long period of time, are at risk for developing benzene-related illnesses, which range from anemia to leukemia. The current study evaluates the health risks of exposure to benzene vapor in gas station refueling workers. A real-time monitor was used to measure workers' exposure to benzene and evaluate the risk level. The mean personal exposure of 18 refueling workers in 3 gas stations in Juybar (Iran) was 1.35+/-1.15 ppm, indicative of a significant health risk. The refueling workers in gas stations in Juybar city center experienced the highest benzene vapor exposures and their health risk level was considered very high. From all metereological parameters measured, only wind speed during the monitoring was a predictor of workers' exposure to benzene vapor as it contributed to dilute benzene vapor in the workers' breathing zone.