Benzene (UN 1114)
Quick Reference
What is Benzene?
Used in the synthesis of a wide variety of goods, including polystyrene, nylon, resins and adhesives, dyes and much more. Bulk transportation is by rail and highway tanks or pipeline. Immiscible in water, highly volatile: produces explosive vapor at ambient temperatures. Heavier than air. Transported, stored and used in closed systems. Due to use of closed systems significant acute toxicity is rare. Ingestion is usually intentional self-harm; accidental exposure usually related to inhalation of vapor.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- 50 m for small spill, 300 m for large spill. Stage uphill/upwind.
- If a tank, rail tank or highway tank is involved in a fire: 800 m. Stage uphill/upwind.
- Additional Resources
- Fire department or industrial response team for rescue, spill response, and fire suppression.
- PPE requirements
- SCBA and chemical protective clothing with eye protection for spills.
- Organic vapor cartridges only effective for brief incidental, low concentration exposures.
- Safely initiating patient contact
- Patient to be brought to the crew in a safe location after gross decontamination.
- Crew may coach decontamination from a distance. Goal is to avoid exposure to vapor.
Effect on the Patient
Absorbed most readily through inhalation and ingestion, dermal absorption is minimal. Can cause CNS depression, dizziness, headache, vertigo, tremor, and loss of consciousness. Dysrhythmias may occur; myocardium may be sensitized to catecholamines. Nausea and vomiting are common. Dermal and ocular exposure may cause irritation. Ingestion can prove fatal with only 10 mL ingested.
Patient Decontamination
Have patient moved to ambient air. Remove contaminated clothing and if skin was exposed wash with soap and water. If eyes were exposed flush for 15 minutes. Contaminated clothing should be double bagged and disposed of, do not transport it with the patient.
Patient Treatment
Care is supportive. Treat as per BCEHS CPGs. Be aware of possible cardiac catecholamine sensitization, although the literature does not suggest whether epinephrine/norepinephrine use is appropriate. Consider avoiding if possible.
Safe Transfer of Care
Ensure patient had adequate external decontamination: primary risk is due to vapors from an inadequately decontaminated patient.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
Provided the patient was decontaminated prior to transport no special steps needed. If concerned about residual vapor open doors to ambulance for 20 minutes to allow ventilation.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
No DPIC monograph available.
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
No SDS available.
Emergency Response Guidebook
Canadian OSH Chemical Profile for Benzene
WHO INCHEM Fact Sheet for Benzene
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |