Marcelle Chan-A-Sue, Isidro Espinosa & Shanomae Rose
SEES Research Series • First published: 2013
Abstract
This study covers an investigation into occupational exposure to benzene emitted from gasoline during refuelling in Greater Georgetown. Pump attendants are particularly vulnerable as they are constantly exposed to gasoline vapour during their work day. Two mathematical models were used to determine a concentration of benzene to which gasoline pump attendants could potentially be exposed. Then the potential health implications of this exposure were examined. The benzene exposure concentrations were found to be 1.5mg/m3 and 0.4mg/m3 for Shell and Guyoil Service Stations respectively, which are within the permissible exposure limits set by the developed world (e.g. by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health in the United States of America and countries of the European Union). Due to certain limitations of this research, future research using more accurate methods is required to determine a general occupational exposure for all pump attendants in Greater Georgetown at any given time, and measures to reduce exposure should be considered.
Keywords: occupational exposure, benzene, refuelling, gasoline
This work is extracted from the digital reproduction of the SEES Research Series publication. Click below to view the full length article or access the 2013 publication.
