ARCHIVED REPORTS_XR0008484 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

The other BTEX compounds (toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes) may cause irntation to the eyes, nose and respiratory system, and dermatitis. Acute exposure can lead to central nervous system effects including headache, dizziness, confusion, and irritability. Exposure to toluene may also result in pupil dilatation, nervousness, and insomnia. Elevated concentrations of xylene isomers may lead to corneal damage, and gastrointestinal symptoms including abdominal Pain, nausea and vomiting. Table 1 presents a summary of the chemical exposure limits and characteristics associated with the BTEX compounds. Exposure to petroleum hydrocarbons may also occur. Petroleum hydrocarbons refer to straight and branched alkanes and alkenes which present a fire hazard in circumstances, such as the Presence of flame, excessive heat or strong oxidizers. An exposure limit for petroleum hydrocarbons has not been established due to the vaned chemical composition. Presently, there are no known chronic health hazards associated with petroleum hydrocarbons. Table I Chemical Exposure Limits and Characteristic OVA Relauve TLV' Oar Response 8hr IDLW Flammable Threshold ]P} % TWA Level Range % (ppm) NOW Benzene 924 150 1 ppe Ca 1 3-7 9 468 C,F Toluene 8.82 110 50 ppm 2,000 1.2-7.1 017-40 F PPM Ethylbenzme. 8.76 100 100 ppm 2,000 1.0-6.7 025-200 F PPM Xylene 8.56 111 100 ppm 1,000 10-70 005-200 F PPM (1) Ionization potential in electron-volts (eV). (2) Century Organic Vapor Analyzer relative response to the compound in percent. (3) Threshold Limit Value as the airborne 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) established by the American Conference of Governmental Industnal Hygienists (ACGM), 1993- 1994. (4) Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health level as published in the National Institute for- Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, 1990 edition. Ca = Carcinogen (5) C-Carcinogen; F-Flammable. airs