Benzene Sources: Where It Can Be Found

Benzene is formed through both natural processes and human activities. The following is a list of processes, products, activities, occupations, industries, and places wherein benzene can be found.

Natural Processes That Produce Benzene

• Volcanoes
• Forest fires

Products Containing Benzene

• Paint, lacquer, and varnish removers
• Industrial solvents
• Gasoline and other fuels
• Glues
• Paints
• Furniture wax
• Detergents
• Thinners
• Inks
• Adhesives and coatings
• Rubbers
• Industrial cleaning and degreasing formulations

Activities/Uses Involving Benzene

• Emissions motor vehicle exhaust
• Burning coal and oil
• Painting and lithography
• Dry cleaning
• Making chemicals used to make:
  • Plastics
  • Resins
  • Nylon and synthetic fibers
• Making some types of:
  • Lubricants
  • Rubbers
  • Dyes
  • Detergents
  • Pharmaceutical drugs
  • Agricultural chemicals (pesticides)

Industries Using Benzene

• Petrochemical manufacturing
• Petroleum refining
• Coke and coal chemical manufacturing
• Rubber tire manufacturing
• Gasoline storage, shipment, and retail operations
• Plastics and rubber manufacturing
• Shoe manufacturing

Occupations/People Who May Be Exposed To Benzene

• Steel workers
• Printers
• Rubber workers
• Shoe makers
• Laboratory technicians
• Gasoline service station employees

Places Where Benzene May Be Found

• Air around waste sites and gas service stations
• Contaminated well water, as a result of benzene leaks from underground storage tanks or hazardous waste sites containing benzene