Beware of benzene

Benzene is a powerful chemical sometimes used to remove grease and dirt from glass and metal. Great care should be taken – it's highly toxic and hazardous.

Benzene safety tips:

• Work in a well-ventilated space, preferably outside
• Benzene is highly flammable, so keep it away from heat, flames or sparks
• Wear impermeable gloves to avoid skin contact with liquid benzene
• If you’ve inhaled benzene and experience any worrying symptoms, remove yourself from further exposure to where you can breathe fresh air, and call your doctor immediately.
• If you get liquid benzene on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water.

 - Olivia Rose-Innes, EnviroHealth Editor, Health24, May 2012 

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