What is the 15-minute exposure limit for benzene in terms of parts per million (ppm)?

The 15-minute exposure limit for benzene is set at 5 parts per million (ppm). This limit is established to protect workers from the harmful effects of benzene, which can include serious health risks such as bone marrow suppression and increased risk of leukemia with prolonged exposure.

Regulatory bodies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have determined that exposure to benzene should be minimized, particularly during short-term exposure scenarios. The 15-minute time-weighted average is crucial for ensuring that even brief exposures remain within safety parameters to mitigate health risks associated with benzene exposure.

In this context, selecting 5 ppm reflects adherence to these guidelines and underscores the importance of maintaining a safe working environment when handling hazardous substances such as benzene.