Petrochemical Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Analysis

Refinery workers are at risk for exposure to benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene (BTEX) and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from routine sampling and maintenance operations, releases from large bulk facilities, surface spills and pipeline leaks. The main source of BTEX contamination to a community is from underground storage tanks leaking into soil and groundwater supplies. BTEX is released into the environment by a volatilization (evaporation) process where it moves freely in the air or attaches to soil particles. It can also dissolve in water. As an example, BTEX volatilization is occurring when you fill a car's fuel tank and can smell the fuel odor.

Pathways to exposure include ingestion from contaminated water sources, inhalation, and absorption through skin. Common exposure symptoms include skin and sensory irritation, central nervous system depression, and respiratory problems. Severe or prolonged exposure may result in kidney, liver and blood system failures. Benzene is identified as a human carcinogen that can cause myeloid leukemia.