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BENZO[B]FLUORANTHENE*
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Characteristics
Benzo[b]fluoranthene is a crystalline solid which is found in fossil fuels and occurs ubiquitously in products of incomplete combustion. It has been detected in mainstream cigarette smoke, urban air, gasoline engine exhaust, emissions from burning of coal and from oil-fired heating, broiled and smoked food, and oils and margarine and in soils, groundwater, and surface waters at hazardous waste sites. Of all estimated environmental releases of benzo(b)fluoranthene, 97% are to air. Of the remaining 3%, approximately equal amounts of benzo(b)fluoranthene are released to water and land. Because it is formed when gasoline, garbage, or any animal or plant material burns, it is usually found in smoke and soot. This chemical combines with dust particles in the air and is carried into water and soil and onto crops.
Sources of Exposure
Benzo[b]fluoranthene is not manufactured, but is sometimes used as a research chemical. The incomplete burning of fossil fuels, garbage, or other organic matter. Wood preserving involving creosote, and paving, roofing, and insulation work involving asphalt or bitumens. Occupational
exposure may be through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where coal and petroleum derived substances are produced or used or where combustion processes are extensive. Benzo(b)fluoranthene was detected at 0.2 ng/mg skin lipid (median concn) in samples taken from roofing workers exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) as a component of coal tar pitch & the asphalt roofing material. The presence in skin oil provides evidence of continued body burden after leaving the workplace.
Effects on Health
Benzo(b)fluoranthene is a probable carcinogen in humans. It has been shown to cause lung, liver and skin cancer in animals. Contact with Benzo(b)fluoranthene can cause skin and eye irritation. Benzo(b)fluoranthene has not been tested for other chronic (long-term) health effects.RecommendationsThere is no special test for this chemical. However, if illness occurs or over exposure is suspected, medical attention is recommended. Enclose operations and use local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust ventilation or enclosure is not used, respirators should be worn. A regulated, marked area should be established where Benzo(b)fluoranthene is handled, used, or stored. Wear protective work clothing. Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to Benzo(b)fluoranthene and at the end of the workshift.
*Compiled by Elizabeth Limbrick, NJIT-TAB. Source: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/benzo-bfluoranthene/recognition.htmlhttp://cira.ornl.gov/documents/Benzobfluoranthene.pdfhttp://web.doh.state.nj.us/rtkhsfs/factsheets.aspx