Petroleum Refineries and Petrochemical Facilities
Petroleum refineries and petrochemical plants produce a number of benzene containing products, including gasoline, kerosene, distillate fuel oils, residual fuel oils, and lubricants. Benzene, a component of crude oil, is created through a number of processes, including fractionation, straight distillation, and cracking. Benzene and benzene-containing products are transported from the refinery via trucks, rail cars, barges and/or tankers.
A number of trades in petroleum refining can risk exposure to benzene on the job. Maintenance workers, pipefitters, unit operators, laborers, welders, and electricians are some examples of trades that risk exposure to benzene. Trades that work around the pipes and holding locations during plant “shutdowns” and “turnarounds” also risk exposure. Tanker drivers and others involved in the transport of benzene from refineries also risk may be exposed to benzene.
