Over time, railroad workers have experienced instances of benzene exposure through the utilization of mineral spirits, solvents, degreasers, as well as through their exposure to diesel. Firefighters also frequently encounter benzene exposures. Additionally, employees in various industries such as chemical plants, oil refineries, steel plants, printing presses, fuel service stations, tanneries, and tire plants are regularly exposed to benzene.

Benzene can be found in a range of substances including fuels, inks, glues, paints, solvents, detergents, degreasers, lubricants, pesticides, rubbers, coatings, polishes, thinners, and waxes. Certain popular brands that have been known to contain benzene include Liquid Wrench, Safety-Kleen 105, Kutzit, Gumout, and CRC Brakleen.

Commercial use of benzene dates back to the 1800s, and even during that time, doctors were able to observe the harmful effects it had on workers. Similar to asbestos, major corporations persisted in using benzene, as they believed that the benefits derived from its various applications outweighed the risks posed to their employees.

Various disorders affecting the blood and bone marrow have been associated with exposure to benzene, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and aplastic anemia. The World Health Organization classifies benzene as “carcinogenic to humans,” and in the United States, regulatory agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and National Institutes of Health (NIH) all categorize benzene as either “known to be a human carcinogen” or a “known human carcinogen.”

Contrary to the claims made by petrochemical conglomerates, steel mills, railroads, and oil field employers, there is no level of benzene exposure that can be considered safe. Despite the hiring of experts by corporate defendants to assert that exposure levels were within acceptable limits, the undeniable fact remains that long-term exposure to benzene can cause genetic damage. Plaintiffs who possess benzene “biomarkers” and are suffering from occupational diseases such as acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome have strong legal cases.

We collaborate with esteemed medical and toxicological experts to substantiate your case. If you suspect that you have been exposed to benzene in your occupation and have subsequently developed a medical condition, we encourage you to reach out to us today.