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(continued)

(A) The employer shall institute the exposure monitoring require under subsections (e)(2) and (e)(3) when there has been a change in the production, process, control equipment, personnel or work practices which may result in new or additional exposure to benzene, or when the employer has any reason to suspect a change which may result in new or additional exposures.
(B) Whenever spills, leaks, ruptures or other breakdowns occur that may lead to employee exposure, the employer shall monitor (using area or personal sampling) after the cleanup of the spill or repair of the leak, rupture or other breakdown to ensure that exposures have returned to the level that existed prior to the incident.
(6) Accuracy of Monitoring. Monitoring shall be accurate, to a confidence level of 95 percent, to within plus or minus 25 percent for concentrations of airborne benzene.
(7) Employee Notification of Monitoring Results.
(A) The employer shall, within 15 working days after the receipt of the results of any monitoring performed under this section, notify each employee of these results in writing either individually or by posting of results in an appropriate location that is accessible to affected employees.
(B) Whenever the PEL and/or STEL are exceeded, the written notification required by subsection (e)(7)(A) shall contain the corrective action being taken by the employer to reduce the employee exposure to or below the PEL and/or STEL, or shall refer to a document available to the employee which states the corrective actions to be taken.
(f) Methods of Compliance.
(1) Engineering Controls and Work Practices.
(A) The employer shall institute engineering controls and work practices to reduce and maintain employee exposure to benzene at or below the employee exposure limits, except to the extent that the employe can establish that these controls are not feasible or where the provisions of subsections (f)(1)(C) or (g)(1) apply.
(B) Wherever the feasible engineering controls and work practices which can be instituted are not sufficient to reduce employee exposure to or below the PEL and/or STEL, the employer shall use them to reduce employee exposure to the lowest levels achievable by these controls and shall supplement them by the use of respiratory protection which complies with the requirements of subsection (g).
(C) Where the employer can document that benzene is used in a workplace less than a total of 30 days per year, the employer shall use engineering controls, work practice controls or respiratory protection or any combination of these controls to reduce employee exposure to benzene to or below the PEL and/or STEL, except that employers shall use engineering and work practice controls, if feasible, to reduce employee exposure to or below 10 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average.
(2) Compliance Program.
(A) When exposures are over the PEL and/or STEL, the employer shall establish and implement a written program to reduce employee exposure to or below the PEL and/or STEL primarily by means of engineering and work practice controls, as required by subsection (f)(1).
(B) The written program shall include a schedule for development and implementation of the engineering and work practice controls. These plans shall be reviewed and revised as appropriate based on the most recent exposure monitoring data, to reflect the current status of the program.
(C) Written compliance programs shall be furnished upon request for examination and copying to authorized representatives of the Chief, the Director, affected employees and designated employee representatives.
(g) Respiratory Protection.
(1) General. For employees who are required to use respirators by this section, the employer must provide respirators that comply with the requirements of this subsection. Respirators must be used during:
(A) Periods necessary to install or implement feasible engineering and work practice controls;
(B) Work operations for which the employer establishes that compliance with either the PEL or STEL through the use of engineering and work practice controls is not feasible, such as some maintenance and repair activities, vessel cleaning, or other operations where engineering and work practice controls are infeasible because exposures are intermittent in nature and limited in duration;
(C) Work operations for which feasible engineering and work practice controls are not yet sufficient or are not required under subsection (f)(1)(C) to reduce exposure to or below the PEL or STEL; and
(D) Emergencies.
(2) Respirator program.
(A) The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance with section 5144(b) (except (d)(1)(C), (d)(3)(C)2.a. and b.) through (m).
(B) If air purifying respirators, the employer must replace the air purifying element at the expiration of its service life or at the beginning of each shift in which such elements are used, whichever comes first.
(C) If NIOSH approves an air purifying element with an end of service life indicator for benzene, such an element may be used until the indicator shows no further useful life.

(3) Respirator Selection.
(A) The employer shall select the appropriate respirator as specified in Table 1.
(B) Any employee who cannot wear a negative pressure respirator shall be given the option of wearing a respirator with less breathing resistance such as a powered air-purifying respirator or supplied air respirator.
TABLE 1. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION FOR BENZENE


Concentration of
Airborne Benzene
or Condition of Use Respirator Type
(a)Less than or (1)Half-mask air-
equal to 10X the purifying
PEL respirator with
organic vapor
cartridge.
(b)Less than or (1)Full facepiece

equal to 50X the respirator with
PEL organic vapor
cartridges; or
(2)Full facepiece
gas mask with
chin style
canister. [FN1]
(c)Less than or (1)Full facepiece
equal to 100X the powered air-
PEL purifying
respirator with
organic vapor
canister. [FN1]
(d)Less than or (1)Supplied air
equal to 1,000 respirator with
ppm. full facepiece in
positive-pressure
mode.
(e)Greater than (1)Self-contained
1,000 ppm or breathing
unknown apparatus with

concentration. supplied air
respirator with
auxiliary self-
contained air
supply.
(f)Escape (1)Any organic vapor
gas mask; or
(2)Any self-
contained
breathing
apparatus with
full facepiece.
(g)Firefighting (1)Full facepiece
self-contained
breathing
apparatus in
positive-pressure
mode.


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[FN1]1 Canisters must have a minimum service life of four (4) hours when tested at 150 ppm benzene, at a flow rate of 64 LPM, 25° C, and 85% relative humidity for non-powered air purifying respirators. The flow rate shall be 115 LPM and 170 LPM, respectively, for tight fitting and loose fitting powered air-purifying respirators.
(h) Protective Clothing and Equipment. Personal protective clothing and equipment shall be worn where appropriate to prevent eye contact and limit dermal exposure to liquid benzene. Protective clothing and equipment shall be provided by the employer at no cost to the employee and the employer shall assure appropriate use. Eye and face protection shall meet the requirements of article 10, Personal Safety Devices and Safeguards.
(i) Medical Surveillance.
(1) General.
(A) The employer shall make a medical surveillance program available for employees who are or may be exposed to benzene at or above the action level 30 or more days per year; for employees who are or may be exposed to benzene at or above the PEL and/or STEL 10 or more days per year; for employees who were exposed above 10 ppm of benzene for 30 or more days in any year prior to December 10, 1989 while employed by their current employer; and for employees involved in the tire building operations called tire building machine operators, who use solvents containing greater than 0.1 percent benzene.
(B) The employer shall assure that all medical examinations and procedures are performed by or under the supervision of a licensed physician and that all laboratory tests are conducted by an accredited laboratory.
(C) The employer shall assure that persons other than licensed physicians who administer the pulmonary function testing required by this section shall complete a training course in spirometry sponsored by an appropriate governmental, academic or professional institution.
(D) The employer shall assure that all examinations and procedures are provided without cost to the employee and at a reasonable time and place.
(2) Initial Examination. Before the time of initial assignment, the employer shall provide each employee covered by subsection (i)(1)(A) with a medical examination in accordance with procedures prescribed by this subsection unless adequate records show that the employee has been examined in accordance with these procedures within the past twelve months. The medical examination shall include the following elements;
(A) A detailed occupational history which includes:
1. Past work exposure to benzene or any other hematological toxins.
2. A family history of blood dyscrasia including hematological neoplasms;
3. A history of blood dyscrasia including genetic hemoglobin abnormalities, bleeding abnormalities, abnormal function of formed blood elements;
4. A history of renal or liver dysfunction;
5. A history of medicinal drugs routinely taken;
6. A history of previous exposure to ionizing radiation; and
7. Exposure to marrow toxins outside of the current work situation.

(B) A complete physical examination.
(C) A complete blood count including a leukocyte count with differential, a quantitative thrombocyte count, hematocrit, hemoglobin, erythrocyte count and erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC). The results of these laboratory tests shall be reviewed by the examining physician.
(D) Additional tests as necessary in the opinion of the examining physician, based on alterations, to the components of the blood or other signs which may be related to benzene exposure; and
(E) For all workers required to wear respirators for at least 30 days a year, the physical examination shall pay special attention to the cardiopulmonary system and shall include a pulmonary function test.
(3) Periodic Examinations.
(A) The employer shall provide each employee covered under subsection (i)(1)(A) with a medical examination annually following the previous examination. These periodic examinations shall include at least the following elements:

1. A brief history regarding any new exposure to potential marrow toxins, changes in medicinal drug use, and the appearance of physical signs relating to blood disorders;
2. A complete blood count including a leukocyte count with differential quantitative thrombocyte count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, erythrocyte count and erythrocyte indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC); and
3. Appropriate additional tests as necessary, in the opinion of the examining physician, in consequence of alterations in the components of the blood or other signs which my be related to benzene exposure.
(B) Where the employee develops signs and symptoms commonly associated with toxic exposure to benzene, the employer shall provide the employee with an additional medical examination which shall include those elements considered appropriate by the examining physician.
(C) For persons required to use respirators for at least 30 days a year, a pulmonary function test shall be performed every three (3) years. A specific evaluation of the cardiopulmonary system shall be made at the time of the pulmonary function test.

(4) Emergency Examinations.
(A) In addition to the surveillance required by the subsection (i)(1)(A), if an employee is exposed to benzene in an emergency situation, the employer shall have the employee provide a urine sample at the end of the employee's shift and have a urinary phenol test performed on the sample within 72 hours. The urine specific gravity shall be corrected to 1.024.
(B) If the result of the urinary phenol test is below 75 mg phenol/L, no further testing is required.
(C) If the result of the urinary phenol test is equal to or greater than 75 mg phenol/L of urine, the employer shall provide the employee with a complete blood count including an erythrocyte count, leukocyte count with differential and thrombocyte count at monthly intervals for a duration of three (3) months following the emergency exposure.
(D) If any of the conditions specified in subsection (i)(5)(A) exists, then the further requirements of subsection (i)(5) shall be met and the employer shall, in addition, provide the employees with periodic examinations if directed by the physician.
(5) Additional Examinations and Referrals.
(A) Where the results of the complete blood count required for the initial and periodic examinations indicate the existence of any of the following abnormal conditions, then the blood count shall be repeated within 2 weeks.
1. The hemoglobin level or the hematocrit falls below the normal limit [outside the 95% confidence interval (C.I.)] as determined by the laboratory for the particular geographic area and/or these indices show a persistent downward trend from the individual's pre-exposure norms; provided these findings cannot be explained by other medical reasons.
2. The thrombocyte (platelet) count varies more than 20 percent below the employee's most recent values or falls outside the normal limit (95% C.I.) as determined by the laboratory.
3. The leukocyte count is below 4,000 per mm [FN3] or there is an abnormal differential count.

(B) If the abnormality persists, the examining physician shall refer the employee to a hematologist or internist for further evaluation unless the physician has good reason to believe such referral is unnecessary. (See Appendix C for examples of conditions where a referral may be unnecessary.)
(C) The employer shall provide the hematologist or internist with the information required to be provided to the physician under subsection (i)(6) and the medical record required to be maintained by subsection (k)(2)(B).
(D) The hematologist's or internist's evaluation shall include a determination as to the need for additional tests, and the employer shall assure that these tests are provided.
(6) Information Provided to the Physician.
The employer shall provide the following information to the examining physician:
(A) A copy of this regulation and its appendices;
(B) A description of the affected employee's duties as they relate to the employee's exposure;
(C) The employee's actual or representative exposure level;
(D) A description of any personal protective equipment used or to be used; and
(E) Information from previous employment-related medical examinations of the affected employee which is not otherwise available to the examining physician.
(7) Physician's Written Opinions.
(A) For each examination under this section, the employer shall obtain and provide the employee with a copy of the examining physician's written opinion within 15 days of the examination. The written opinion shall be limited to the following information:
1. The occupationally pertinent results of the medical examination and tests;
2. The physician's opinion concerning whether the employee has any detected medical conditions which would place the employee's health at greater than normal risk of material impairment from exposure to benzene;

3. The physician's recommended limitations upon the employee's exposure to benzene or upon the employee's use of protective clothing or equipment and respirators.
4. A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the medical examination and any medical conditions resulting from benzene exposure which require further explanation or treatment.
(B) The written opinion obtained by the employer shall not reveal specific records, findings and diagnoses that have no bearing on the employee's ability to work in a benzene-exposed workplace.
(8) Medical Removal Plan.
(A) When a physician makes a referral to a hematologist/internist as required under subsection (i)(5)(B), the employee shall be removed from areas where exposures may exceed the action level until such time as the physician makes a determination under subsection (i)(8)(B).
(B) Following the examination and evaluation by the hematologist/internist, a decision to remove an employee from areas where benzene exposure is above the action level or to allow the employee to return to areas where benzene exposure is above the action level shall be made by the physician in consultation with the hematologist/internist. This decision shall be communicated in writing to the employer and employee. In the case of removal, the physician shall state the required probable duration of removal from occupational exposure to benzene above the action level and the requirements for future medical examinations to review the decision.
(C) For any employee who is removed pursuant to subsection (i)(8)(B), the employer shall provide a follow-up examination. The physician, in consultation with the hematologist/internist, shall make a decision within 6 months of the date employee was removed as to whether the employee shall be returned to the employee's former job or whether the employee should be removed permanently.
(D) Whenever an employee is temporarily removed from benzene exposure pursuant to subsections (i)(8)(A) or (i)(8)(B), the employer shall transfer the employee to a comparable job for which the employee is qualified (or can be trained for in a short period) and where benzene exposures are as low as possible, but in no event higher than the action level. The employer shall maintain the employee's current wage rate, seniority and other benefits. If there is no such job available, the employer shall provide medical removal protection benefits until such a job becomes available or for 6 months, whichever comes first.
(E) Whenever an employee is removed permanently from benzene exposure based on a physician's recommendation pursuant to subsection (i)(8)(C), the employee shall be given the opportunity to transfer to another position which is available or later becomes available for which the employee is qualified (or can be trained for in a short period) and where benzene exposures are as low as possible but in no event higher than the action level. The employer shall assure that such employee suffers no reduction in current wage rate, seniority or other benefits as a result of the transfer.
(9) Medical Removal Protection Benefits.
(A) The employer shall provide to an employee 6 months of medical removal protection benefits immediately following each occasion an employee is removed from exposure to benzene because of hematological findings pursuant to subsections (i)(8)(A) and (i)(8)(B), unless the employee has been transferred to a comparable job where benzene exposures are no higher than the action level.

(B) For the purposes of this section, the requirement that an employer provide medical removal protection benefits means that the employer shall maintain the current wage rate, seniority and other benefits of an employee as though the employee had not been removed.
(C) The employer's obligation to provide medical removal protection benefits to a removed employee shall be reduced to the extent that the employee receives compensation for earnings lost during the period of removal either from a publicly or employer-funded compensation program, or from employment with another employer made possible by virtue of the employee's removal.
(j) Communication of Benzene Hazards to Employees.
(l) Signs and Labels.
(A) The employer shall post signs at entrances to regulated areas. The signs shall bear the following legend:
DANGER BENZENE CANCER HAZARD EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE - NO SMOKING AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL ONLY RESPIRATOR REQUIRED

(B) The employer shall ensure that labels or other appropriate forms of warning are provided for containers of benzene within the workplace. There is no requirement to label pipes. The labels shall comply with the requirements of section 5194(f) and in addition shall include the following legend:
DANGER CONTAINS BENZENE CANCER HAZARD

(2) Material Safety Data Sheets.
(A) Employers shall obtain or develop, and shall provide access to their employees, to a material safety data sheet (MSDS) which addresses benzene and complies with section 5194.
(B) Employers who are manufacturers or importers shall:
1. Comply with subsection (a) of this section; and
2. Comply with the requirement in section 5194 (g)(6) that they deliver to downstream employers an MSDS which addresses benzene.
(3) Information and Training.

(A) The employer shall provide employees with information and training at the time of their initial assignment to a work area where benzene is present. If exposures are above the action level, employees shall be provided with information and training at least annually thereafter.
(B) The training program shall be in accordance with the requirements of section 5194(h) and shall include specific information on benzene for each category of information prescribed by that section.
(C) In addition to the information required under section 5194, the employer shall:
1. Provide employees with an explanation of the contents of this section, including Appendices A and B, and indicate to them where this regulation is available; and
2. Describe the medical surveillance program required under subsection (i) and explain the information contained in Appendix C.
(k) Recordkeeping.

(l) Exposure Measurements.
(A) The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record of all measurements required by subsection (e), in accordance with section 3204, Access to Employee Exposure and Medical Records.
(B) This record shall include:
1. The dates, number, duration, and results of each of the samples taken, including a description of the procedure used to determine representative employee exposures;
2. A description of the sampling and analytical methods used;
3. A description of the type of respiratory protective devices worn, if any; and
4. The name, social security number, job classification and exposure levels of the employee monitored and all other employees whose exposure the measurement is intended to represent.

(C) The employer shall maintain this record for at least 30 years, in accordance with section 3204.
(2) Medical Surveillance.
(A) The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record for each employee subject to medical surveillance required by subsection (i), in accordance with section 3204
(B) This record shall include:
1. The name and social security number of the employee;
2. The employer's copy of the physician's written opinion on the initial, periodic and special examinations, including results of medical examinations and all tests, opinions and recommendations;
3. Any employee medical complaints related to exposure to benzene;
4. A copy of the information provided to the physician as required by subsections (i)(6)(B) through (E); and
5. A copy of the employee's medical and work history related to exposure to benzene or any other hematologic toxins.
(C) The employer shall maintain this record for at least the duration of employment plus 30 years, in accordance with section 3204.
(3) Access to Records.
(A) The employer shall assure that all records required to be maintained by this section shall be made available upon request to the Chief and the Director for examination and copying.
(B) Employee exposure monitoring records required by subsection (k)(l) shall be provided upon request for examination and copying to employees, employee representatives, and the Chief in accordance with section 3204.
(C) Employee medical records required by subsection (k)(2) shall be provided, upon request for examination and copying, to the subject employee, to anyone having the specific written consent of the subject employee, and to the Chief in accordance with section 3204.
(4) Transfer of Records.
(A) The employer shall comply with the requirements involving transfer of records set forth in section 3204(h).
(B) If the employer ceases to do business and there is no successor employer to receive and retain the records for the prescribed period, the employer shall notify the Director at least three (3) months prior to disposal, and transmit them to the Director if required by the Director within that period.
(l) Observation of Monitoring.
(1) Employee Observation. The employer shall provide affected employees, or their designated representatives, an opportunity to observe the measuring or monitoring of employee exposure to benzene conducted pursuant to subsection (e).
(2) Observation Procedures. When observation of the measuring or monitoring of employee exposure to benzene requires entry into areas where the use of protective clothing and equipment or respirators is required, the employer shall provide the observer with personal protective clothing and equipment or respirators required to be worn by employees working in the area, assure the use of such clothing and equipment or respirators, and require the observer to comply with all other applicable safety and health procedures.
(m) Reporting Requirements. See section 5203.
(n) Dates.
(1) Effective Date. This regulation shall become effective on the thirtieth day after the date it is filed with the Secretary of State except as provided by subsection (n)(2).
(2) Start-up Dates.
(A) Engineering and work practice controls required by subsection (f)(l) shall be implemented no later than December 10, 1989.
(B) Coke and coal chemical operations may comply with subsection (n)(2)(A) or alternately include within the compliance program required by subsection (f)(2), a requirement to phase in engineering controls as equipment is required and replaced. For coke and coal chemical operations choosing the latter alternative, compliance with the engineering controls requirements of subsection (f)(1) shall be achieved no later than December 10, 1992 and substantial compliance with the engineering control requirements shall be achieved by December 10, 1990.
(o) Appendices. The information contained in Appendices A, B, C, and D is not intended, by itself, to create any additional obligations not otherwise imposed or to detract from any existing obligations. The protocols on respiratory fit testing in Appendix E are mandatory.


Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.






Appendix A
Substance Safety Data Sheet, Benzene

I. Substance Identification

A. Substance: Benzene
(B) Permissible Exposure: Except as to the use of gasoline, motor fuels and other fuels subsequent to discharge from bulk terminals and other exemptions specified in section 5218(a)(2):
1. Airborne: The maximum time-weighed average exposure limit is 1 part of benzene vapor per million parts of air (1 ppm) for an 8-hour workday and the maximum short-term exposure limit (STEL) is 5 ppm as averaged over a 15-minute sampling period.
2. Dermal: Eye contact must be prevented and skin contact with liquid benzene must be limited.
C. Appearance and odor: Benzene is a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant, sweet odor. The odor of benzene does not provide adequate warning of its hazard.
II. Health Hazard Data
A. Ways in which benzene affects your health. Benzene can affect your health if you inhale it, or if it comes in contact with your skin or eyes. Benzene is also harmful if you happen to swallow it.
B. Effects of Overexposure.
1. Short-term (acute) Overexposure: If you are overexposed to high concentrations of benzene, well above the levels where its odor is first recognizable, you may feel breathless, irritable, euphoric, or giddy; you may experience irritation in your eyes, nose, and respiratory tract. You may develop a headache, feel dizzy, nauseated, or intoxicated. Severe exposures may lead to convulsions and loss of consciousness.
2. Long-term (chronic) Exposure. Repeated or prolonged exposure to benzene, even at relatively low concentrations, may result in various blood disorders, ranging from anemia to leukemia, an irreversible, fatal disease. Many blood disorders associated with benzene exposure may occur without symptoms.
III. Protective Clothing and Equipment.
A. Respirators. Respirators are required for those operations in which engineering controls or work practice controls are not feasible to reduce exposure to the permissible level. However, where employers can document that benzene is present in the workplace less than 30 days a year, respirators may be used in lieu of engineering controls. If respirators are worn, they must have joint Mine Safety and Health Administration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) seal of approval, and cartridges or canisters must be replaced before the end of their service life, or the end of the shift, whichever occurs first. If you experience difficulty breathing while wearing a respirator, you may request a positive pressure respirator from your employer. You must be thoroughly trained to use the assigned respirator, and the training will be provided by your employer.
B. Protective Clothing. You must wear appropriate protective clothing (such as boots, gloves, sleeves, aprons, etc.) over any parts of your body that could be exposed to liquid benzene.
C. Eye and Face Protection. You must wear splash-proof safety goggles if it is possible that benzene may get into your eyes. In addition, you must wear a face shield if your face could be splashed with benzene liquid.
IV. Emergency and First-Aid Procedures.

A. Eye and Face Exposure. If benzene is splashed in your eyes, wash it out immediately with large amounts of water. If irritation persists or vision appears to be affected see a doctor as soon as possible.
B. Skin Exposure. If benzene is spilled on your clothing or skin, remove the contaminated clothing and wash the exposed skin with large amounts of water and soap immediately. Wash contaminated clothing before you wear it again.
C. Breathing. If you or any other person breathes in large amounts of benzene, get the exposed person to fresh air at once. Apply artificial respiration if breathing has stopped. Call for medical assistance or a doctor as soon as possible. Never enter any vessel or confined space where the benzene concentration might be high without proper safety equipment and at least one other person present who will stay outside. A life line should be used.
D. Swallowing. If benzene has been swallowed and the patient is conscious, do not induce vomiting. Call for medical assistance or a doctor immediately.
V. Medical Requirements
If you are exposed to benzene at a concentration at or above 0.5 ppm as an 8- hour time weighted average, or have been exposed above 10 ppm in the past while employed by your current employer, your employer is required to provide an initial medical examination and history and laboratory tests and annually thereafter. These tests shall be provided without cost to you. In addition, if you are accidentally exposed to benzene (either by ingestion, inhalation, or skin/eye contact) under emergency conditions known or suspected to constitute toxic exposure to benzene, your employer is required to make special laboratory tests available to you.
VI. Observation of Monitoring
Your employer is required to perform measurements that are representative of your exposure to benzene and you or your designated representative are entitled to observe the monitoring procedure. You are entitled to observe the steps taken in the measurement procedure and to record the results obtained. When the monitoring procedure is taking place in an area where respirators or personal protective clothing and equipment are required to be worn, you or your representative must also be provided with, and must wear the protective clothing and equipment.
VII. Access to Records
You or your representative are entitled to see the records of measurements of your exposure to benzene upon written request to your employer. Your medical examination records can be furnished to yourself, your physician or designated representative upon request by you to your employer.
VIII. Precautions for Safe Use, Handling and Storage
Benzene liquid is highly flammable. It should be stored in tightly closed containers in a cool, well ventilated area. Benzene vapor may form explosive mixtures in air. All sources of ignition must be controlled. Use nonsparking tools when opening or closing benzene containers. Fire extinguishers, where provided, must be readily available. Know where they are located and how to operate them. Smoking is prohibited in areas where benzene is used or stored. Ask your supervisor where benzene is used in your area and for additional plant safety rules.


Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.






Appendix B
Substance Technical Guidelines, Benzene

I. Physical and Chemical Data

A. Substance identification.
1. Synonyms: Benzol, benzole, coal naphtha, cyclohexatriene, phene, phenyl hydride, pyrobenzol. (Benzin, petroleum benzin and Benzine do not contain benzene.)
2. Formula: C sub6 H sub6 (CAS Registry Number: 71-43-2)
B. Physical data.
1. Boiling Point (760 mm Hg): 80.1 degrees C (176 degrees F)
2. Specific Gravity (water = 1): 0.879
3. Vapor Density (air = 1): 2.7
4. Melting Point: 5.5 degrees C (42 degrees F)
5. Vapor Pressure at 20 degrees C (68 degrees F): 75 mm Hg
6. Solubility in Water: .06

7. Evaporation Rate (ether = 1): 2.8
8. Appearance and Odor: Clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive sweet odor.
II. Fire, Explosion, and Reactivity Hazard Data
A. Fire.
1. Flash Point (closed cup): -11 degrees C (121 degrees F)
2. Autoignition Temperature: 580 degrees C (1076 degrees F)
3. Flammable Limits in Air. % by Volume: Lower: 1.3%, Upper: 7.5
4. Extinguishing Media: Carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or foam.
5. Special fire-fighting procedures: Do not use solid stream of water, since stream will scatter and spread fire. Fine water spray can be used to keep fire-exposed containers cool.

6. Unusual fire and explosion hazards: Benzene is a flammable liquid. Its vapors can form explosive mixtures. All ignition sources must be controlled when benzene is used, handled, or stored. Where liquid or vapor may be released, such areas shall be considered as hazardous locations. Benzene vapors are heavier than air; thus the vapors may travel along the ground and be ignited by open flames or sparks at locations remote from the site at which benzene is handled.
7. Benzene is classified as a 1 B flammable liquid for the purpose of conforming to the requirements of article 136 of these Orders. A concentration exceeding 3,250 ppm is considered a potential fire explosion hazard. Locations where benzene may be present in quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures are considered Class I Group D for the purposes of conforming to the requirements of article 59 of the Low-Voltage Electrical Safety Orders.
B. Reactivity.
1. Conditions contributing to instability: Heat.
2. Incompatibility: Heat and oxidizing materials.

3. Hazardous decomposition products: Toxic gases and vapors (such as carbon monoxide).
III. Spill and Leak Procedures
A. Steps to be taken if the material is released or spilled. As much benzene as possible should be absorbed with suitable materials, such as dry sand or earth. That remaining must be flushed with large amounts of water. Do not flush benzene into a confined space, such as a sewer, because of explosion danger. Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate enclosed places.
B. Waste disposal method. Disposal methods must conform to other jurisdictional regulations. If allowed, benzene may be disposed of: (a) by absorbing it in dry sand or earth and disposing in a sanitary landfill; (b) if small quantities, by removing it to a safe location from buildings or other combustible sources, pouring it in dry sand or earth and cautiously igniting it; and (c) if large quantities, by atomizing it in a suitable combustion chamber.
IV. Miscellaneous Precautions

A. High exposure to benzene can occur when transferring the liquid from one container to another. Such operations should be well ventilated and good work practices must be established to avoid spills.
B. Use non-sparking tools to open benzene containers which are effectively grounded and bonded prior to opening and pouring.
C. Employers must advise employees of all plant areas and operations where exposure to benzene could occur. Common operations in which high exposures to benzene may be encountered are: the primary production and utilization of benzene, and transfer of benzene.


Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.






Appendix C
Medical Surveillance Guidelines For Benzene

I. Route of Entry
Inhalation; skin absorption.
II. Toxicology
Benzene is primarily an inhalation hazard. Systemic absorption may cause depression of the hematopoietic system, pancytopenia, aplastic anemia, and leukemia. Inhalation of high concentrations can affect central nervous system function. Aspiration of small amounts of liquid benzene immediately causes pulmonary edema and hemorrhage of pulmonary tissue. There is some absorption through the skin. Absorption may be more rapid in the case of abraded skin, and benzene may be more readily absorbed if it is present in a mixture or as a contaminant in solvents which are readily absorbed. The defatting action of benzene may produce primary irritation due to repeated or prolonged contact with the skin. High concentrations are irritating to the eyes and the mucous membranes of the nose, and respiratory tract.
III. Signs and Symptoms
Direct skin contact with benzene may cause erythema. Repeated or prolonged contact may result in drying, scaling dermatitis, or the development of secondary skin infections. In addition, there is benzene absorption through the skin. Local effects of benzene vapor or liquid on the eye are slight. Only at very high concentrations is there any smarting sensation in the eye. Inhalation of high concentrations of benzene may have an initial stimulatory effect on the central nervous system characterized by exhilaration, nervous excitation, and/or giddiness, followed by a period of depression, drowsiness, or fatigue. A sensation of tightness in the chest accompanied by breathlessness may occur and ultimately the victim may lose consciousness. Tremors, convulsions and death may follow from respiratory paralysis or circulatory collapse in a few minutes to several hours following severe exposures.
The detrimental effect on the blood-forming system of prolonged exposure to small quantities of benzene vapor is of extreme importance. The hematopoietic system is the chief target for benzene's toxic effects which are manifested by alterations in the levels of formed elements in the peripheral blood. These effects have occurred at concentrations of benzene which may not cause irritation of mucous membranes, or any unpleasant sensory effects. Early signs and symptoms of benzene morbidity are varied, often not readily noticed and non-specific. Subjective complaints of headache, dizziness, and loss of appetite may precede or follow clinical signs. Rapid pulse and low blood pressure , in addition to a physical appearance of anemia, may accompany a subjective complaint of shortness of breath and excessive tiredness. Bleeding from the nose, gums, or mucous membranes, and the development of purpuric spots (small bruises) may occur as the condition progresses. Clinical evidence of leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia, singly or in combination, has been frequently reported among the first signs.
Bone marrow may appear normal, aplastic, or hyperplastic, and may not, in all situations, correlate with peripheral blood forming tissues. Because of variations in the susceptibility to benzene morbidity, there is no "typical" blood picture. The onset of effects of prolonged benzene exposure may be delayed for many months or years after the actual exposure has ceased and identification or correlation with benzene exposure must be sought out in the occupational history.
IV. Treatment of Acute Toxic Effects
Remove from exposure immediately. Make sure you are adequately protected and do not risk being overcome by vapors. Give oxygen or artificial resuscitation if indicated. Flush eyes, wash skin if contaminated and remove all contaminated clothing. Symptoms of intoxication may persist following severe exposure. Recovery from mild exposures is usually rapid and complete.
V. Surveillance and Preventive Considerations.
A. General
The principal effects of benzene exposure which form the basis for this regulation are pathological changes in the hematopoietic system, reflected by changes in the peripheral blood and manifesting clinically as pancytopenia, aplastic anemia, and leukemia. Consequently, the medical surveillance program is designed to observe, on a regular basis, blood indices for early signs of these effects, and although early signs of leukemia are not usually available, emerging diagnostic technology and innovative regimes make consistent surveillance for leukemia, as well as other hematopoietic effects, essential.
Initial examinations are to be provided at the time of initial assignment, and periodic examinations annually thereafter. There are special provisions for medical tests in the event of hematologic abnormalities or for emergency situations.
The blood values which require referral to a hematologist or internist are noted in the standard in paragraph (i)(5). The standard specifies that blood abnormalities that persist must be referred "unless the physician has good reason to believe such referral is unnecessary" (paragraph (i)(5)). Examples of conditions that could make a referral unnecessary despite abnormal blood limits are iron or folate deficiency, menorrhagia, or blood loss due to some unrelated medical abnormality.
Symptoms and signs of benzene toxicity can be non-specific. Only a detailed history and appropriate investigative procedures will enable a physician to rule out or confirm conditions that place the employee at increased risk. To assist the examining physician with regard to which laboratory tests are necessary and when to refer an employee to the specialist, OSHA has established the following guidelines.
B. Hematology Guidelines
A minimum battery of tests is to be performed by strictly standardized methods.
1. Red cell, white cell, platelet counts, white blood cell differential, hematacrit and red cell indices must be performed by an accredited laboratory. The normal ranges for the red cell and white cell counts are influenced by altitude, race, and sex, and therefore should be determined by the accredited laboratory in the specific area where the tests are performed.

Either a decline from an absolute normal or an individual's base line to a subnormal value or a rise to a supranormal value, are indicative of potential toxicity, particularly if all blood parameters decline. The normal total white blood count is approximately 7,200/mm [FN3] plus or minus 3,000. For cigarette smokers the white count may be higher and the upper range may be 2,000 cells higher than normal for the laboratory. In addition, infection, allergies and some drugs may raise the white cell count. The normal platelet count is approximately 250,000 with a range of 140,000 to 400,000. Counts outside this range should be regarded as possible evidence of benzene toxicity.
Certain abnormalities found through routine screening are of greater significance in the benzene-exposed worker and require prompt consultation with a specialist, namely:
a. Thrombocytopenia.
b. A trend of decreasing white cell, red cell, or platelet indices in an individual over time is more worrisome than an isolated abnormal finding at one test time. The importance of trend highlights the need to compare an individual's test results to baseline and/or previous periodic tests.

c. A constellation or pattern of abnormalities in the different blood indices is of more significance than a single abnormality. A low white count not associated with any abnormalities in other cell indices may be a normal statistical variation, whereas if the low white count is accompanied by decreases in the platelet and/or red cell indices, such a pattern is more likely to be associated with benzene toxicity and merits thorough investigation.
Anemia, leukopenia, macrocytosis or an abnormal differential white blood cell count should alert the physician to further investigate and/or refer the patient if repeat tests confirm the abnormalities. If routine screening detects an abnormality, follow-up tests which may be helpful in establishing the etiology of the abnormality are the peripheral blood smear and the reticulocyte count.
The extreme range of normal for reticulocytes is 0.4 to 2.5 percent of the red cells, the usual range being 0.5 to 1.2 percent of the red cells, but the typical value is in the range of 0.8 to 1.0 percent. A decline in reticulocytes to levels of less than 0.4 percent is to be regarded as possible evidence (unless another specific cause is found) of benzene toxicity requiring accelerated surveillance. An increase in reticulocyte levels to about 2.5 percent may also be consistent with (but is not as characteristic of) benzene toxicity.
2. An important diagnostic test is a careful examination of the peripheral blood smear. As with reticulocyte count the smear should be with fresh uncoagulated blood obtained from a needle tip following venipuncture or from a drop of earlobe blood (capillary blood). If necessary, the smear may, under certain limited conditions, be made from a blood sample anticoagulated with EDTA (but never with oxalate or heparin). When the smear is to be prepared from a specimen of venous blood which has been collected by a commercial Vacutainer R type tube containing neutral EDTA, the smear should be made as soon as possible after the venesection. A delay of up to 12 hours is permissible between the drawing of the blood specimen into EDTA and the preparation of the smear if the blood is stored at refrigerator (not freezing) temperature.
3. The minimum mandatory observations to be made from the smear are:
a. The differential white blood cell count.
b. Description of abnormalities in the appearance of red cells.

c. Description of any abnormalities in the platelets.
d. A careful search must be made throughout of every blood smear for immature white cells such as band forms (in more than normal proportion, i.e., over 10 percent of the total differential count), any number of metamyelocytes, myelocytes or myeloblasts. Any nucleate or multinucleated red blood cells should be reported. Large "giant" platelets or fragments of megakaryocytes must be recognized.
An increase in the proportion of band forms among the neutrophilicgranulocytes is an abnormality deserving special mention for it may rep resent a change which should be considered as an early warning of benzene toxicity in the absence of other causative factors (most commonly infection). Likewise, the appearance of metamyelocytes, in the absence of another probable cause, is to be considered a possible indication of benzene-induced toxicity.
An upward trend in the number of basophils, which normally do not exceed about 2.0 percent of the total white cells, is to be regarded as possible evidence of benzene toxicity. A rise in the eosinophil count is less specific but also may be suspicious of toxicity if the rise is above 6.0 percent of the total white count.
The normal range of monocytes is from 2.0 to 8.0 percent of the total white count with an average of about 5.0 percent. About 20 percent of individuals reported to have mild but persisting abnormalities caused by exposure to benzene show a persistent monocytosis. The findings of a monocyte count which persists at more than 10 to 12 percent of the normal white cell count (when the total count is normal) or persistence of an absolute monocyte count in excess of 800/mm [FN3] should be regarded as a possible sign of benzene-induced toxicity.
A less frequent but more serious indication of benzene toxicity is the finding in the peripheral blood of the so-called "pseudo" (or acquired) Pelger-Huet anomaly. In this anomaly many, or sometimes the majority, of the neutrophilic granulocytes possess two round nuclear segments -less often one or three round segments -rather than three normally elongated segments. When this anomaly is not hereditary, it is often but not invariablypredictive of subsequent leukemia. However, only about two percent of patients who ultimately develop acute myelogenous leukemia show the acquired Pelger-Huet anomaly. Other tests that can be administered to investigate blood abnormalities are discussed below; however, such procedures should be undertaken by the hematologist. (continued)