{"id":353209,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:40","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/product-liability\/benzene-faq.html"},"modified":"2025-10-01T17:30:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-01T22:30:00","slug":"benzene-faq","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/benzene-faq.html","title":{"rendered":"Benzene Illness: Legal Information and FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Benzene Illness: Legal Information and FAQ<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/christie-nicholson-j-d\/\">Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/oni-harton-j-d\/\">Oni Harton, J.D.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            October 01, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>Benzene is a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218144\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218144\">known <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218119\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218119\">human carcinogen<\/span> linked to cancer, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218118\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218118\">anemia<\/span>, immune system damage, and other health risks. If you\u2019ve been exposed and gotten sick as a result, you may have grounds for a legal claim. Your attorney must prove you were exposed, became ill, and that benzene caused your condition.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Benzene is found in various products, such as glue, paint, and gasoline. Experts have linked it to cancer, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218113\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218113\">leukemia<\/span>, and other health issues. If you come into contact with benzene in high doses or over a long period, you can become seriously ill. Some people have died from extended exposure to this chemical.<\/p>\n<p>This section discusses some of the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218128\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218128\">health effects<\/span> and illnesses caused by exposure to benzene. It also describes your legal options if you develop an illness after coming in contact with this chemical. An <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/toxic-torts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">attorney near you<\/a> can also answer your questions and provide legal advice tailored to your situation.<\/p>\n<p>This page answers the following frequently asked questions (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218162\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218162\">FAQ<\/span>):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#smell\">Can you smell benzene?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#products\">What products contain benzene?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#exposure\">How are people exposed to benzene?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#benzene-inhalation\">What are the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218128\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218128\">health effects<\/span> of benzene inhalation?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#sodium-benzoate\">Is sodium benzoate the same as benzene?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#injuries-illnesses\">What injuries and illnesses can benzene cause?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#cancer\">How long until benzene exposure causes cancer?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#past-exposure\">Can I sue for exposure that happened a long time ago?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#product-liability\">How do I prove causation in a benzene product liability claim?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#federal-regulations\">Are there federal regulations on benzene?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#medical-tests\">Can medical tests detect benzene exposure?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#self-protection\">How can I protect myself against benzene exposure?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#legal-help\">Should I get legal help for a benzene exposure claim?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><a id=\"smell\" name=\"smell\"><\/a>Can you smell benzene?<\/h2>\n<p>Benzene is a mostly <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218159\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218159\">colorless liquid<\/span>. Sometimes, it is light yellow. Benzene is easy to detect. It has a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218164\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218164\">sweet odor<\/span>, and it\u2019s highly flammable. It evaporates quickly, so it can be hard to notice when you come into contact with it.<\/p>\n<p>You will likely smell benzene at a gas station or near factories. You may also smell it if you pass a dump or hazardous waste site.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"products\"><\/a>What products contain benzene?<\/h2>\n<p>Many products <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/benzene-sources-where-it-can-be-found.html\">contain benzene<\/a>. It\u2019s one of the top 20 chemicals used in American manufacturing. This is one of the reasons you can find it in groundwater and soil.<\/p>\n<p>Companies that use benzene in their products store it as hazardous waste. However, it can leak out of containers and contaminate the environment. It can also cause air pollutants.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/emergency.cdc.gov\/agent\/benzene\/basics\/facts.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">According to the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218146\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218146\">CDC<\/span><\/a>, common products that are <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218156\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218156\">sources of <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene<\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\"> exposure<\/span> include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218116\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218116\">Plastics<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Glue<\/li>\n<li>Gasoline<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218122\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218122\">Solvents<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/product-liability\/tobacco-smoking-injury-dangers.html\">Cigarettes and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218131\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218131\">tobacco smoke<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li>Paint<\/li>\n<li>Furniture wax and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218136\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218136\">resins<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Lighter fluid<\/li>\n<li>Nylon<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218117\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218117\">Detergent<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218127\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218127\">Pesticides<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218126\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218126\">Dyes<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Certain Drugs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Contractors also use benzene in asphalt. If you have a new driveway installed, there\u2019s a good chance the asphalt will contain benzene. If so, you must take precautions to keep you and your family safe.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"exposure\"><\/a>How are people exposed to benzene?<\/h2>\n<p>Benzene\u00a0can come from both natural processes and human activities.<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t have to work near industrial <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218152\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218152\">emissions<\/span> or hydrocarbons to become sick. Many people come into contact with benzene through <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218143\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218143\">motor vehicle exhaust<\/span> and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218131\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218131\">tobacco smoke<\/span>. Smelling benzene at gas stations is common because crude oil has benzene.<\/p>\n<p>Other people come into contact with benzene from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218150\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218150\">forest fires<\/span>. If you work as a firefighter or live near fire zones, you may expose yourself to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218158\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218158\">high <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Indoor air may contain even higher levels due to products such as glues, lubricants, paints, furniture wax, and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218117\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218117\">detergents<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, benzene leaks from underground storage tanks or hazardous waste sites may contaminate well water.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"benzene-inhalation\"><\/a>What are the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218128\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218128\">health effects<\/span> of benzene inhalation?<\/h2>\n<p>The most likely method of exposure to benzene is inhalation. Inhalation occurs when you encounter it in the air, such as near a hazardous waste site or gas station.<\/p>\n<p>When you inhale benzene, you may notice the following symptoms:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Drowsiness<\/li>\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n<li>Rapid or irregular heartbeat<\/li>\n<li>Headaches<\/li>\n<li>Tremors<\/li>\n<li>Confusion<\/li>\n<li>Unconsciousness<\/li>\n<li>Death (if exposed to\u00a0<em>very<\/em>\u00a0high levels)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You probably won\u2019t get sick from <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218135\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218135\">short-term exposure<\/span>. However, if you think you are ill from benzene, seek medical attention immediately. Once this chemical enters your system, it attacks your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218121\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218121\">bone marrow<\/span>, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218139\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218139\">white <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218115\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218115\">blood cells<\/span>, and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218132\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218132\">red <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218115\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218115\">blood cells<\/span>, causing <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218118\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218118\">anemia<\/span> and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218113\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218113\">leukemia<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Benzene is also an eye, skin, and respiratory tract irritant. If you\u2019re concerned about the content of your food and drinks, consult the National Institute of Health\u2019s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/ntp.niehs.nih.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/ntp\/roc\/content\/profiles\/benzene.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">national toxicology program<\/a>. Their <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218151\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218151\">fact sheet<\/span> describes exposure levels and how benzene can affect your health.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"sodium-benzoate\"><\/a>Is sodium benzoate the same as benzene?<\/h2>\n<p>Technically, sodium benzoate is not the same as benzene. Sodium benzoate is a very\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/diet\/what-to-know-about-sodium-benzoate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">common preservative<\/a>\u00a0that can turn into benzene. Some users worry that similar-sounding ingredients mean they have to avoid both altogether. However, you should be safe as long as you don\u2019t expose yourself to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218158\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218158\">high <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Soft drinks and other beverages may contain benzoate salts (such as sodium or potassium). These salts act as preservatives that inhibit the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"injuries-illnesses\"><\/a>What injuries and illnesses can benzene cause?<\/h2>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/emergency.cdc.gov\/agent\/benzene\/basics\/facts.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218129\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218129\">U.S. Department of Health and Human Services<\/span><\/a>\u00a0has determined benzene is a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218119\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218119\">human carcinogen<\/span>, posing a cancer risk. Specifically, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> is known to cause <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218113\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218113\">leukemia<\/span> and\u00a0non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218146\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218146\">CDC<\/span>) and the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.atsdr.cdc.gov\/toxprofiles\/tp3.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Agency for <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218145\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218145\">Toxic Substances<\/span> and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218134\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218134\">Disease Registry<\/span><\/a>\u00a0(<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218130\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218130\">ATSDR<\/span>) have confirmed this.<\/p>\n<p>According to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/publications.iarc.fr\/_publications\/media\/download\/6033\/876c1d378dd124e3acd79ef60c3b74af989aeb96.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218148\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218148\">International Agency for Research on Cancer<\/span><\/a>\u00a0(IARC), <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218120\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218120\">long-term exposure<\/span> to benzene can also cause the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Reduction in ovaries<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218118\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218118\">Anemia<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Damage to the immune system<\/li>\n<li><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218121\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218121\">Bone marrow<\/span> damage<\/li>\n<li>Excessive bleeding<\/li>\n<li>Damage to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218132\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218132\">red <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218115\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218115\">blood cells<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Even <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218167\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218167\">low <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span> can make you sick. If you detect its odor or discover its presence, get fresh air immediately. Protect yourself from the harmful effects of this chemical.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"cancer\"><\/a>How long until benzene exposure causes cancer?<\/h2>\n<p>Any exposure to benzene can make you sick. However, according to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/risk-prevention\/chemicals\/benzene.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">American Cancer Society<\/a>, in most cases, people develop cancer after at least a year of exposure. This doesn\u2019t mean you\u2019re guaranteed to fall ill. But people who come into contact with benzene for years are at a greater risk of developing cancer, <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218118\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218118\">anemia<\/span>, and other illnesses.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"past-exposure\" name=\"past-exposure\"><\/a>Can I sue for exposure that happened a long time ago?<\/h2>\n<p>Many workers who worked with or near benzene for years are still filing lawsuits today. Whether you can still sue depends on your state&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/statutes-of-limitations.html\">statute of limitations<\/a>. Every state has rules on how long you have to file a legal claim. The clock starts when you learn (or should&#8217;ve learned) that benzene exposure caused your illness.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"product-liability\" name=\"product-liability\"><\/a>How do I prove causation in a benzene product liability claim?<\/h2>\n<p>To prevail in your <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> lawsuit, you must prove the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>First, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">your personal injury lawyer<\/a> must show that you were exposed to benzene.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Second, you must submit proof that you\u2019re sick. Most attorneys use your medical records for proof.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Finally, you need to prove that it was <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> that caused your particular illness.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your\u00a0attorney\u00a0must demonstrate that another party is responsible for that exposure. For example, if your child drank the same beverage every day for two years and developed cancer, you may have a claim against the soft drink company. However, it will be difficult to prove that their product directly caused your child\u2019s illness.<\/p>\n<p><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218163\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218163\">Medical tests<\/span> can detect <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218158\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218158\">high <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span> in your system. There is also ample evidence that benzene poses a risk to both <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218155\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218155\">public health<\/span> and environmental health. Your attorney can draw on this evidence and rely on expert witnesses to help prove your case.<\/p>\n<p>Many plaintiffs recover damages by joining a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/litigation\/legal-system\/class-action-cases.html\">class action lawsuit<\/a>. It isn\u2019t easy to pursue individual cases. That doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t sue the responsible parties. It just means that many benzene lawsuits involve numerous plaintiffs.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"federal-regulations\"><\/a>Are there federal regulations on benzene?<\/h2>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/2016-09\/documents\/benzene.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218140\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218140\">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency<\/span><\/a>\u00a0(<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218123\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218123\">EPA<\/span>) has confirmed that benzene is a carcinogen for humans. Therefore, it has set a maximum contaminant <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">level of benzene<\/span> in drinking water at five parts benzene per billion parts of water (5 ppb).<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/SLTC\/benzene\/standards.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218137\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218137\">Occupational Safety and Health Administration<\/span><\/a>\u00a0(<span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218125\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218125\">OSHA<\/span>) has also implemented special regulations regarding benzene. <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218125\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218125\">OSHA<\/span> has set limits of 1 part benzene per million parts of workspace air (1 <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218124\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218124\">ppm<\/span>) for eight-hour shifts and 40-hour work weeks.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"medical-tests\"><\/a>Can medical tests detect benzene exposure?<\/h2>\n<p>You can detect benzene\u2019s presence in the human body by measuring breath, blood, and urine levels. Undergo these tests shortly after exposure to benzene.<\/p>\n<p>Urine tests may not be a reliable indicator of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> since the <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218153\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218153\">breakdown products<\/span> may have come from other sources. If you notice that you\u2019re experiencing <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> symptoms, contact a medical professional immediately.<\/p>\n<p>The symptoms of <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> include the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n<li>Drowsiness<\/li>\n<li>Headaches<\/li>\n<li>Vomiting<\/li>\n<li>Unconsciousness<\/li>\n<li>Convulsion<\/li>\n<li>Irregular or fast heartbeat<\/li>\n<li>Confusion<\/li>\n<li>Tremors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Having these symptoms doesn\u2019t necessarily mean you\u2019ve been exposed to benzene. Many things can cause these problems. This is why you need to get tested to ensure that you haven\u2019t ingested or come into contact with dangerous <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"self-protection\"><\/a>How can I protect myself against benzene exposure?<\/h2>\n<p><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218125\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218125\">OSHA<\/span> recommends\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/SLTC\/benzene\/evaluation.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">controlling exposure<\/a>\u00a0by limiting evaporation and preventing spills and splashes. If you work in an industry that makes or uses benzene, it\u2019s prudent to use hoods, canopies, proper ventilation systems, and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218157\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218157\">personal protective equipment<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Otherwise, limit contact with gasoline and <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218133\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218133\">cigarette smoke<\/span>. Families are encouraged not to smoke in their houses, enclosed environments, or near children.<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"legal-help\"><\/a>Should I get legal help for a <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span> claim?<\/h2>\n<p>If you or a loved one has experienced symptoms or developed a medical condition related to <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218160\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218160\">benzene exposure<\/span>, first seek immediate medical attention.<\/p>\n<p>If you have used products containing benzene that didn\u2019t have adequate warnings, or if you\u2019re concerned you encountered <span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218158\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218158\">high <\/span><span data-action=\"click-&gt;dropdown#toggle\" data-dropdown-menu-id-param=\"menu_report_term_54218114\" data-dropdown-placement-param=\"top\" data-dropdown-disable-toggle-aria-param=\"true\" data-term-id=\"54218114\">levels of benzene<\/span> at your place of work, a lawyer can explain your options and possible legal remedies for your injuries.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/toxic-torts\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">toxic torts attorneys<\/a> can get you started. Select your state or city to review contact and ratings information for local experts. Your search results will also link you to additional details about the attorneys\u2019 experience with benzene litigation.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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fill=\"white\"><\/rect>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div 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class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help seek fair compensation on your behalf\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Accident and injury claims are complex and insurance carriers have lawyers on their side\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    An attorney can help gather evidence and documentation to support your claim\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>An experienced attorney can increase your chance of success with your case. 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  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw answers your questions about benzene, cancer, and other related health risks. Learn about your legal options and how to sue for benzene exposure.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353191,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353209","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353209","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353209"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353209\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353191"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353209"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353209"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353209"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353209"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353209"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}