Benzene Leukemia Law Blog : Benzene and Leukemia Lawyer & Attorney : Burke & Eisner Law Firm : Benzene Exposure, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma

Benzene is only one of many cancer causing agents in petroleum. So I read this with interest.  If federal officials burn some of the oil slick in the Gulf and the smoke heads for Tampa, there are apparently plans in place to evacuate parts of Tampa if necessary.  That seems extreme to me.

As FEMA and other government agencies prepare for what is now being called by some, the worst oil spill disaster in history, plans to evacuate the Tampa Bay area are in place.

The plans would be announed in the event of a controlled burn of surface oil in the Gulf of Mexico, if wind or other conditions are expected to take the toxic fumes through Tampa Bay.

You can read more about this over at the examiner.com

Read through the comments on that page.  There is clearly some conflicting onformation on this.  But it does make sense that the community woudl be worried about any type of oil slick burn off for particularly this reason...the prevailing winds would probably send some level of toxic smoke over Florida.

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Each year statistics regarding the amount of benzene emissions polluting the air, and people's lungs, are reported by government officials. However, a non-profit watchdog group believes these reported statistics are inaccurate and more benzene is being emitted from refineries and other sources than is being revealed. According to federal officials, benzene emissions increased an estimated nine percent at refineries across the United States between 2007 and 2008.
 
The non-profit group, Environmental Integrity Project (EIP), thinks refineries across the country may be undereporting their emissions of benzene. In some cases, they believe numbers aren't being given at all, and in others, they believe refineries are giving inconsistent numbers to regulators. Reports from the EIP state that the reports from 2007-2008 came about even though there was a decline in the demand for products containing petroleum in 2009. This forced some refineries to reduce their production. Due to misleading and confusing reports such as this, the EIP believes reports are being given without any true backing.
 
The EIP has publicly stated that, "continued uncertainty over the quality and accuracy of reporting makes it difficult to know how much real progress has been made in the effort to decrease benzene emissions. Some companies that report relatively high emissions may actually be doing a more careful job measuring their releases than others. However, there is also evidence that benzene emissions on the whole are being undereported due to outdated and inaccurate emission factors and conflicting reports submitted by industry."

The Effects of Benzene Exposure 
 
Benzene is a chemical compound that has been found to be highly toxic and can cause various cancers and other health ailments to those exposed over time. It has also been found to cause harm to the environment. Benzene was originally used as an industrial solvent, especially to help degrease metals. However, through the years it's been used to produce plastics, in the production of gasoline, as an ingredient in cigarettes, and even exists in some soft drinks.

If you are exposed to benzene, you are at risk of developing life-threatening illnesses, such as anemia caused by benzene and acute myleoid leukemia. There has not been a cure found for many of the health conditions caused by this carcinogen, which is why it's so important to be educated on its effects and aware of how much benzene is being emitted.
 

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According to recent reports, the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority is looking into a welcoming a company that would recycle lubricant oil into their county lines. However, the authority's vice chairman, Frank Amerson, opposes this decision for fear of the environmental and health implications it could have on the community. The company in talks to establish themselves in Macon, Georgia, is Green Renewable Oil, a Massachusetts based company who is partnered with Sequoia Energy & Environment. The plant is in negotiations to be in the Allied Industrial Park in South Macon and would focus on removing toxins, such as benzene, from motor oil.

Amerson's concerns not only stem from the fact that benzene is a known carcinogen that could be emitted throughout the community, but also because the company has failed to answer questions regarding how they are going to be handling the benzene to prevent exposure. He also states that a Nevada re-refinery that uses the same technology as Green Renewable Oil and Sequoia plan to use, have been under much scrutiny recently due to environmental violations.

Meeting Hoped to Expose Truth Cancelled

Amerson had reportedly planning to bring the facts to the table at a meeting with the industrial authority's Properties Committee later this week. But the meeting was cancelled after Green Renewable Oil representatives backed out. Due to the cancellation Amerson met with the vice chairman of the economic development commission to voice his concerns publicly.

About a dozen similar refineries exist across the state of Georgia and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division Web site claims these refineries emit chemicals that can contribute to the ozone and climate change. These chemicals, such as benzene, are also linked to various forms of cancer, lung problems, and other health conditions. As of now the talks of the refineries existence in Macon seem to be moving forward, though Amerson and other environmental officials hope to put a halt on this reestablishment for the good of the environment and the people.

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A former police auto mechanic who was recently diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukemia filed a workers compensation claim against his former employer in West Virginia. The claim states that it was due to his benzene exposure while employed with the West Virginia State Police that he is now suffering from this fatal form of cancer. Unfortunately, the man passed away while his case was on appeal after it was originally denied.
 
It was following his death that the Supreme Court of Appeals came to a conclusion that there was in fact a link between his exposure to benzene on the job and the development of leukemia. Leukemia is one of the many illnesses that is associated with benzene exposure. Through the medical literature and witness testimony the plaintiff has prepared prior to his death, it was found that there was no other cause for his leukemia, than the benzene he worked with and around while employed as a mechanic. 
 
Employer Fights Back
 
The employer fought back against the workplace exposure claims brought against them claiming that the evidence provided was not accurate or medically significant. However, the court rejected these arguments and sided with the deceased mechanic.
 
According to West Virginia laws, a worker is able to show a link between an occupational disease and their employment under two conditions: 1) They have significant studies and research that clearly show how the disease is associated with a workplace hazard, and 2) If they can show that they were exposed to a hazard and as a result are now suffering from a disease connected to this hazard.
 
The mechanic was able to prove both and as a result his claims proved successful and those he left behind will be compensated on his behalf.

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You may know what benzene is and that it’s linked to various types of leukemia and other fatal illnesses. But what does it mean to get benzene poisoning? Benzene poisoning typically happens when benzene is inhaled. Your skin can also be exposed to benzene, but the chemical doesn’t easily absorb into the skin.

When you inhale benzene it targets the blood-forming tissues of the body. Benzene is so powerful that it is able to effectively damage the bone marrow where the red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets form in the body.  Since these three components are essential in the makeup of the blood, a shortage of them can result in several blood disorders and diseases.

Diseases Caused by Benzene Poisoning

Research has shown that benzene poisoning can cause anemia, leucopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Though, among all the diseases caused by benzene poisoning, leukemia is among the most serious. Exposure to benzene can causeacute leukemia, which develops rapidly, as well as chronic leukemia, which progresses at a slower pace.

Acute benzene poisoning is what someone experiences when they are exposed to a high level of benzene during a short period of time. This type of exposure is most common in enclosed spaces like a tank or vessel that is coated with benzene residues. Acute benzene poisoning can also happen from spills or equipment failure. Acute poisoning can negatively affect the central nervous system causing dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and incoherent speech. In more severe case acute benzene poisoning can be fatal.

Chronic benzene poisoning occurs when someone experience exposure to low levels of benzene over a long duration of time. If someone is treated for acute exposure and survives, he or she is at risk of developing chronic, lasting affects associated with their exposure to the toxic chemical. Some common symptoms of chronic benzene poisoning are tiredness, weight loss, and headaches.

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Benzene is an organic compound that comes in liquid form and is often colorless. It is widely known as being one of the main compounds in gasoline, but it is also used in the production of some plastics and soft drinks. Benzene in cigarettes and drugs has also been discovered by researchers. Research in recent years has linked exposure to benzene with some forms of cancers and other health complications. It has also been publicized as being a toxic carcinogen. Some illnesses associated with benzene exposure are:  

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
• Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
• Myelodysplastic Disease (MDS)
• Other forms of cancer

One of the worst parts about being exposed to benzene? You can be exposed to benzene without even knowing it. Each day people are exposed to this carcinogen at work, their home, and at schools around the world without even knowing it. But if you do develop one of these illness or discover you have been the victim of benzene exposure you can take legal action. There are just a couple of things to consider before contacting your benzene attorney.  

Be Prepared Before Filing Your Suit 

Before you contact an attorney consider where you may have been exposed. You may have the right to sue the manufacturers or distributors of products containing benzene due to the negative health affects they’ve had on you or a loved one. You may also find that you’ve been exposed at your place (or former place) of employment or a school you attended. In this case, you may have a case regarding benzene workplace safety or negligence. In any case, it’s important to know who the likely parties are to sue for your illness in order to add value to your lawsuit.  

Having your case go to the right court is also key in receiving a settlement in a benzene lawsuit. Some home courts have more favorable rules and a local jury which may be more sympathetic to your situation. It is also important to know and understand the statute of limitations. This is a time limit that all claims have and if you don’t file your case within a certain period of time, you will lose your right to recovery. These time periods vary depending on the state you file in and the type of case you have. Since there are many small components that go into filing a successful case it’s important to also hire a benzene attorney who specializes in benzene cases and can lend you the proper support and details you will need.  

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The Channing family of Wisconsin claims they refuse to drink the water at their home. They may cook with it and bathe in it but they refuse to drink what they claim to be water infested with benzene.

According to Joe and Kathy Channing, they recently learned that leaking tanks at an old gas station near their house has been polluting their water. However, they were later informed that the problem was being taken care of and the state was going to close the case.

They say they were puzzled as to why no one had never told them about the water which was contaminated with benzene, a known carcinogen. This way especially confusing and alarming since the gas station has been close for more than ten years, which means their water may have been polluted this entire time.  
 
“We have so many questions,” Kathy has told reporters. “But the part that gets me is if they would have told us, we would have had the opportunity to move.” 
 
Water Causes Concern Regarding Benzene Exposure

The Channings reportedly moved to their home in 1983 and are now concerned about their long-term health considering for a majority of this time they may have been unknowingly exposed to benzene. Benzene is a carcinogen that is contained in gasoline and has been known to cause fatal illnesses like acute myeloid leukemia and other rare blood disorders. The substance is most harmful when ingested or inhaled over a long period of time.

They are also hesitant to trust state officials who are now claiming the case is “taken care of”considering they hid the problem from the family for so long. The family says they recently received a letter regarding the groundwater contamination that made its way to their property.

The letter reportedly said that the polluted groundwater was receding and would continue to dissolve over time. Though for Kathy, the letter seemed to be missing some pieces and believes that given the history of the gas station, and the governments secrecy regarding the issue, the DNR can’t know for certain whether or not the contamination is dissipating. The Channings are now looking into hiring a benzene attorney, who specializes in benzene-related cases, to help them investigate and receive compensation for the state’s negligence.

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A federal jury recently awarded more than $100 million in a benzene lawsuit to ten former BP workers who were supposedly exposed to benzene and other toxic chemicals while employed with BP in Texas City. The workers worked at the Texas oil refinery and the award was received after the history of the refinery and its benzene issues were exposed in court.

According to reports, the benzene case was the first of an estimated 100 toxic chemical lawsuits that have been filed against BP. These lawsuits have reportedly involved 143 BP workers and residents who live near the Texas oil refinery. All of the plaintiffs there was a release of gases from the oil refinery; however, BP refuses to acknowledge any wrongdoing. Benzene is a known carcinogen that can lead to the development of leukemia and other fatal illnesses in the case of prolonged exposure.

Benzene Exposure Sparks Lawsuit

The benzene lawsuit says that the toxic release from the refinery exposed the community and environment to benzene and other harmful chemicals like aluminum silica. As a result of the release many workers and residents claim the quality of the air noticeably changed and caused many personal injuries.

BP officials have maintained throughout the extent of the lawsuit that there was no release of benzene or any other toxic fumes in Texas City. They claimed in court that foul smell of chemicals may have blown in from another refinery in the nearby area. However, plaintiffs fought back against the corporation stating that the company failed to identify and take responsibility for about 70% of the toxic releases that occurred from the Texas City refinery.

Reports state that $10 million was awarded to the 10 plaintiffs in punitive damages and in addition the Galveston jury awarded $326,000 in compensatory damages for the personal injuries endured by the plaintiffs. The individual damage awards that went to each of the workers reportedly ranged depending on the extent of their injuries between $5,918 to $244,386. Attorneys that specialize in benzene cases reportedly represented many of the clients.


 

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Recent natural gas drilling in North Texas has fueled concerns regarding benzene exposure. The community fears that the water and air are being polluted with benzene, which is a known carcinogen.  

Recent air tests within the surrounding areas where the drilling is being conducted showed high concentrations of benzene and other chemicals. The toxins were found both around the drilling site itself as well as in the surrounding communities.

More Tests for Benzene Requested

According to reports, cities, counties, and the state’s environmental agencies are now waiting for the follow-up testing they’ve requested to be done. They also are hoping that further action will be taken to ensure the communities and the environment is protected from benzene exposure.

The study that already took place is reportedly scheduled to be released later this month. During the study, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is said to have monitored more than 60 different areas throughout Tarrant, Denton, Parker, Johnson and Wise counties. This was done to help gather essential data, which the agency’s toxicology division is now analyzing. The results from tests conducted in November are supposedly going to be released to the public in February.

Although there’s no telling at this point what the state studies will find, individual tests have many worried and fearful for their health and the health of their children. The communities concerns even provoked TCEQ officials to meet with operators in the Barnett Shale to ask them to voluntarily reduce the amount of benzene being released.

Michael Honeycutt, who works as the toxicology director for TCEQ, says the level of benzene exposure at one site is comparable to “breathing constant gasoline fumes”. This type of exposure to a chemical like benzene has been known to cause cancers such as leukemia to those exposed over a long period of time. Long-term exposure to benzene in the air can cause leukemia.

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A benzene lawsuit was recently filed against Chevron USA by the widow of a man who passed away due to benzene exposure. The wife claims that it was because of her husband's former employer that he was diagnosed with a benzene related illness and his life was taken too soon. The man was reportedly employed by Chevron USA for many years and it was during his time as a refinery worker that he was exposed to the toxic chemical. 
 
Wife Seeks Benzene Attorney and Justice 
 
Louise Parker reportedly researched the cancerous chemical known as benzene and linked it to her husband's death in 2008. Following his premature death she sought the legal help of a benzene attorney who specializes in benzene-related cases to seek justice for her late husband.
 
According to the lawsuit, Ray Parke was employed by Gulf Oil, which is now Chevron, and worked in their refinery for many years. During his career with the global company he was reportedly exposed to benzene, which has been known to cause leukemia and other rare blood disorders. Parker eventually developed multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic and his life was taken in December of 2008.

Parker's wife claims that for decades Chevron was aware of the hazardous risks associated with benzene products but failed to inform their workers or give them any form of protection. Instead, they continued to exposure their unknowing employees to the toxic chemicals for years.

The benzene lawsuit also states that Chevron failed to take the necessary precautions regarding engineering, safety, and industrial hygiene to be sure that Parker was not exposed to benzene.

With the help of her benzene attorney, Parker is suing Chevron for exemplary damages.

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A benzene lawsuit was recently filed against Chevron USA by the widow of a man who passed away due to benzene exposure. The wife claims that it was because of her husband's former employer that he was diagnosed with a benzene related illness and his life was taken too soon. The man was reportedly employed by Chevron USA for many years and it was during his time as a refinery worker that he was exposed to the toxic chemical. 
 
Wife Seeks Benzene Attorney and Justice 
 
Louise Parker reportedly researched the cancerous chemical known as benzene and linked it to her husband's death in 2008. Following his premature death she sought the legal help of a benzene attorney who specializes in benzene-related cases to seek justice for her late husband.
 
According to the lawsuit, Ray Parke was employed by Gulf Oil, which is now Chevron, and worked in their refinery for many years. During his career with the global company he was reportedly exposed to benzene, which has been known to cause leukemia and other rare blood disorders. Parker eventually developed multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic and his life was taken in December of 2008.

Parker's wife claims that for decades Chevron was aware of the hazardous risks associated with benzene products but failed to inform their workers or give them any form of protection. Instead, they continued to exposure their unknowing employees to the toxic chemicals for years.

The benzene lawsuit also states that Chevron failed to take the necessary precautions regarding engineering, safety, and industrial hygiene to be sure that Parker was not exposed to benzene.

With the help of her benzene attorney, Parker is suing Chevron for exemplary damages.

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Reports claim that officials in Fort Worth, Texas, are getting ready to take action regarding the recent reports of high levels of benzene in the air. The the cancer-causing chemical has reportedly been infesting the surrounding Barnett Shale natural gas facilities.City leaders are concerned that the air quality is not only harming the environment but is also causing physical harm to the local residents living in and around the Fort Worth area. They say that they are now ready to take action in order to protect the citizens of Texas. 

"I don't think we can wait," says council member Kathleen Hicks, referring to the time it may take to have a thorough examination of the environmental impact the benzene has had on Fort Worth.

Hicks says she is concerned after hearing that infrared cameras near some gas facilities in the Barnett Shale found high levels of benzene.

"I think this is something we need to deal with as soon as possible," she told reporters.

Benzene Exposure Remains a Concern

Benzene is a highly toxic chemical that can lead to the development of leukemia and other rare blood disorders if inhaled or ingested over time. Several benzene exposure lawsuits have been filed across the country in recent months with the help of a benzene attorney and city officials are hoping it won't come to this in their community. At a recent Forth Worth City Council meeting Hicks, along with Mayor Mike Moncrief, supposedly directed city staffers to put together a report on what's known about benzene emissions. Some of the questions include:

• Who should be testing the air?
• What are other cities are doing to protect their citizens?

One example that was brought to the attention of local residents and some city council members was that in nearby Colleyville officials are considering requiring air quality sampling be done during all phases of the gas drilling process as a precaution to prevent benzene exposure. This will also require conditions to be met before drilling permits are given out.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality investigators have been taking more air samples throughout the week. They are expected to give a complete report of what they discover in terms of the levels of benzene in air by the end of the year. 

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Commissioners in Garfield County, Colorado continue to seek answers from the state regarding what has appeared to be many lapses in oil and gas drilling enforcement for water contamination problems. Commissioners met to discuss the situation earlier this week as to how they were going to demand more answers in regards to the West Divide Creek benzene and methane leak that occured in 2004.

According to county consultant Dr. Geoffrey Thyne, the seep that happened at West Divide Creek may not be able to be fully contained with repairs from EnCana. Many residents and officials also worry that the benzene and other toxic chemical issues in the area will not be limited to one well drilled by the company.
 
Leak Causes Benzene Exposure
 
The seep reportedly contained so much benzene and other chemicals property owner Lisa Bracken was able to light the creek water on fire in 2004. Government officials claim that since this time the benzene levels at the creek have lowered, however there is still cause for concern in terms of residents becoming the victims of benzene exposure. According to environmentalists and local officials, the methane levels have remained consistent since 2004 which is also alarming to those who living in the area and in terms of the safety of the environment.

The seep all is thought to have occured when hydraulic fracturing increased around the area. Hydraulic fracturing is when chemicals like benzene are injected into the sand and water into gas wells in order to free up more natural gas. However, this technique has been put in question due to situations like this since more research needs to be done regarding how the chemicals communicate with groundwater supplies.

Two Republican members of the Garfield County commissioners are now looking to Governor Bill Ritter’s COGC for answers about the recent water quality concerns relating to the oil and gas industry. they have more recently been criticized for failing to pass a bill that would require EPA to gain more control over hydraulic fracturing in the area.

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Jeffrey Cox is a U.S. soldier who recently spent two years in Iraq as a combat stress social worker in the Army Reserve. During this time he says he developed a chronic cough. The cough and his faltering health are thought to be the result of a toxic burn pit in Balad and Cox is now taking action to ensure other soldiers to encounter the same health problems when they return from the war.
 

"I don't have an oxygen tank that I carry around, but it affects me," Cox tells reporters. "Everybody that knows me has heard my cough."

According to Cox heavy smoke that was consistently being emitted from the massive burn pits commonly filled his base and exposed soldiers to toxic fumes like benzene.

"You'd sit in there and breathe that in all day. The smoke was so thick some days that it went right into where I was sleeping. It was like a heavy fog of smoke," says Cox.

Soldier Takes Action with a Benzene Lawsuit
 
Cox recently filed a lawsuit against Halliburton and KBR claiming that the two companies used the pits as dumping ground for unwanted materials, many which were toxic, and ranged from human corpses to plastic foam and bottles.

Everything was reportedly lit on fire and produced toxic fumes and flames that shot hundreds of feet into the sky. Cox says this toxic smoke infested the nearby living quarters where American soldiers and government contractors resided.

Cox and a fellow soldier, James Garland of Osterville, who has been diagnosed with a rare form of carcinoma, filed the lawsuit together. Another 34 lawsuits concerning cancer diagnoses and other health problems from the same pits have also been filed. The benzene lawsuit claims that Halliburton and KBR were negligent with how they dealt with the pits. Some soldiers have even lost their lives from acute myeloid leukemia due to their exposure to the toxic fumes on base.

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A landowner in Pennsylvania has filed a lawsuit against a local energy company claiming the natural gas drilling they are currently doing is causing the water, air and overall environment to be polluted with benzene and other toxic chemicals. 

George Zimmermann is the owner of 480 acres in Washington County, Pennsylvania. He claims that Atlas Energy Inc. has ruined his land with their recent drilling project and put the environment, as well as the community, at risk of benzene exposure. 
 
Water Tests Find High Levels of Benzene

According to reports, water tests were recently conducted at three locations by gas wells located on Zimmermann's property. The tests found seven chemicals that could potentially cause cancer, to be infesting the water. Researchers claim the level of carcinogens like benzene that was discovered in the water was well above "screening levels" set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Testers also concluded that more studies and testing needed to be done on Zimmermann's land.

Atlas officials claim that these accusations linking them to the land contamination are ridiculous, but Zimmerman intends on vigorously defending himself, and his land, in court. But Zimmermann says he has evidence that chemicals used by Atlas contaminated his land.

"There are substances that can't be made by nature and that's what's in the ground," Zimmerman told reports.

Drilling Conducted Poses Threat

Atlas is reportedly exploiting the Marcellus Shale, which is a vast gas reserve that underlies an estimated two-thirds of Pennsylvania, as well as portions of West Virginia, Ohio and New York State. Researchers believe that the project contains enough natural gas to meet the U.S. demand for at least a decade.

Zimmerman claims that in recent months water tests found chemicals at 2,600 times acceptable levels, benzene at 44 times above limits and naphthalene five times federal standards.
Benzene and the other chemicals found can cause serious illnesses like leukemia and can also damage the immune, nervous and respiratory systems when ingested or inhaled over. Zimmerman hopes the lawsuit will stop the drilling from affecting his land and he will be reimbursed for any land renovations needed.

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According to reports, it's been more than 50 years since the Fillmore oil refinery closed, but Texaco is still in the process of cleaning the contaminated soil and groundwater of that surrounding the Superfund site. The air, water, and soil is reportedly soaked in benzene and other toxic contaminants, posing a threat to the people and environment living near the site.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EOA) officials claim Texaco and its parent company, Chevron, have been working vigorously on cleaning up the site, which is located just east of Fillmore's downtown. However, there are still high levels of benzene that have been detected in the water and soil. This week EPA officials reportedly asked Texaco to take the next steps necessary to eliminate the problem as quickly as possible. 

Harmful Chemicals Still Plague Site

Due to the dynamics of the water table, compounds like benzene, which have been linked to the development of leukemia and other cancers of the blood, reportedly don't pose a threat to drinking water in the community, says EPA project manager Holly Hadlock. But she does not that the site still needs to be cleaned up.

"With these levels of contamination in the soil, there is no immediate threat to anyone's health but for a long-term use they are above levels we want," explains Hadlock.

It's been years since Texaco first started the process of extracting the contaminated water from the site. However, even with all their supposed efforts, the water and soil at the site is still said to be highly contaminated. Hadlock says that a major problem is that the soil has a lot of clay, which is making it hard to extract all of the benzene from the ecosystem.

With the recent push from the EPA, Texaco now has is being forced to submit a plan on how they plan on removing the benzene by next year. Although, this ongoing cleanup process is expected to take several more years.

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Even though diet sodas may keep your calorie count and sugar intake down, recent studies have reportedly linked the tasty beverages to a reduction in kidney functioning.Research shows that sodas may, in fact, double the risk of kidney function decline.
 
Research Seeks Truth Behind Soda
 
The research reportedly analyzed women who consumed two or more diet sodas each day. Researchers found and found that these women experienced a 30 percent decrease in “a measure of kidney function” based on a large follow-up. This research was just recently presented at the yearly meeting of the American Society of Nephrology in San Diego, California.
 
The 3,256 female participants involved in the study were asked to provide dietary details, including whether or not what they ingested other forms of sweet drinks, such as sugar-sweetened drinks, sugar-sweetened soda, and artificially sweetened soda.
 
According to reports stemming from the Nephrology Society, an estimated 20 million of those living in the United States experience “some evidence of chronic kidney disease." The disease diagnoses have also reportedly doubled in the past 20 years.
 
Past Studies Link Soda with Benzene

This isn't the first time soda has received negative media attention. In the past doctors and researchers warned about daily consumption of sodas (of all varieties) in relation to benzene exposure. Past studies discovered high levels of benzene, which is a known carcinogen and the cause of rare blood disorders like leukemia, in many of America's most popular soft drinks.

The source of benzene contamination in commercially produced drinks is typically the result of a few chemical reactions between ingredients blended together in the drinks.Until more research is conducted on the safety of consuming soft drinks on a daily basis, both for your kidneys and to prevent cancer, researchers are advising people to lay low on sodas and opt for juices to get a sugar fix instead.

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Even though several carcinogens, such asbenzene, have been removed from working and living environments, in many areas risk of exposure is still high. Many potential hazards remain in building materials, additives or contaminants in the food we eat and water we drink. There is also high risk of exposure to toxins in the pollutants, both indoors, that can affect our health daily. The American Cancer Society (ASC) recently publicly reported this in their major statement regarding environmental dangers.

The statement served as part of an ACS program to learn about the links between pollution and cancer. The statement set out to outline the ASC's methods, goals, and overall role in  the prevention of releasing toxic chemicals into our air and water.

ASC Takes Action Against Pollution
 
The ASC's latest project geared toward pollution prevention reportedly focuses on hazards in the environment that began emerge during a time when there was a severe increase in industrialization in the early 20th century.

According to reports, the chemicals the organization are most worried about include everything from naturally occurring substances like asbestos to products taken from natural sources like benzene, along with created chemicals like vinyl chloride.

In their statement, the ACS noted that they rely heavily on the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer and the National Toxicology Program of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to help them identify carcinogenic substances that pose a threat to human beings and the environment.

The ACS is continuously working to support efforts to improve toxicity testing and get better and constant screening for chemicals, this being a process that began in the 1960s, when research linked asbestos to lung cancer and mesothelioma and benzene was found to cause leukemia and other cancers of the blood.
 
"Continuing this tradition, a key ACS objective in the current national debate on healthcare is to integrate scientifically based prevention services into standard medical care," they added.

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Those who served our country in past and were exposed to cancerous chemicals like benzene are now dealing with aftermath that toxic exposure can have on our lives. The men and women who are now U.S. veterans are also now have aware of the repercussions of benzene exposure and how important it it to have access to medical screening in order to live a healthy, happy life.
 
However, there is currently no government set program available to veterans of war so they can be screened, even if they worked and lived in highly toxic environments. Among the illnesses many of these veterans are being diagnosed with due to exposure to deadly chemicals like benzene, is bladder cancer. 
 
Benzene Causes Rare Cancers
 
According to Dr. Robert Schlesinger, who is a retired Army Colonel and urologist, “Organic compounds in general, and benzene containing compounds specifically are recognized as carcinogenic for the lining of the entire urinary tract, kidneys, ureters and bladder. There is no dispute regarding this.”
 
Although bladder cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths and it can be detected through an inexpensive and non-invasive medical test, it is still alarming that the government hasn't set up free screening for those who could be at high risk. 
 
Toxic Chemicals Common on Military Sites
 
From research conducted in 2003 by the Air Force, 1,400 military sites across the country were found to be contaminated with benzene and other known carcinogens. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) National Priority List (Superfund) lists multiple organic solvent, benzene included, and other contaminants for military bases. However, veterans haven't been notified of much of this information.
 
Over 130 military bases throughout the United States currently serve as hazardous waste sites. The extent of contamination on the land, in the water, and in the air is reportedly so severe that federal action is required in order to prevent further health damage. According to many environmental officials, the issue isn't just about a few empty barrels releasing toxins on an open lot. Instead, it's about veterans who worked and lived where chemicals like benzene were prevalent, now resulting in several cases of mutations and cancer diagnoses.

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According to recent reports, the Mayor Bill White of Houston, Texas, has enlisted Harris County's chief lawyer to crack down on pollution coming in from outside the city by surrounding plants. White hopes that in conjunction with the help of other city officials, a clean region can be achieved for the people of Houston and their surrounding environment.

Under a recent agreement which was finalized, Houston's Air Quality Control Bureau will be supplying personnel and equipment to investigate the air quality of Harris County. White hopes that through research he will better be able to pursue civil suits against polluters throughout Houston.

Reports claim that these cases hoped to be pursued would involve the polluters on the outskirts of Houston. There are reportedly only three major industrial sources of pollution inside the city of Houston, while there are dozens that surround the county.Among the toxins believed to be admitted into the air daily is the cancerous chemical known as benzene.

White his nearing the end of his third term as the city's mayor and during his time in office he has earned high marks from environmental groups by taking action to better the environment. He has also been known to challenge both federal and state regulators, along with the petrochemical industry, over the emissions of hazardous chemicals like benzene.

Mayor Takes Action

At one time during while serving as mayor of Houston, White reportedly pushed to fine plants outside Houston up to $2,000 a day for emitting benzene into the city's air. According to reports, these threat brought about opposition from other city officials, as well as state lawmakers who claimed he had overstepped his boundaries.

“We listened to those concerns, and we agreed that every jurisdiction should be involved,” White said. “Now we have a great partner.”

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A rally was held last week in Liberty Plaza in New York City in an effort to help those who have been affected by the toxic chemicals left behind on September 11, 2001. Among those who were a part of the rally was Esther Regelson, a local resident of the city and board member of 9/11 Environmental Action.

According to Regelson, it was the benzene burning jet fuel, joined with the mercury from the smashed fluorescent lighting, lead from the computers, and dioxins from the melting plastics that are still affecting the health of those who were around the World Trade Centers on that fateful day.

Group Committed to Helping Victims of Benzene Exposure

Regelson’s group, is a part of a major coalition that has been committed to helping better the health of post 9-11 workers. Workers and residents who inhaled toxic chemicals like benzene when the towers collapsed reportedly held placards in three different languages, demanding the U.S. government to provide them with health care and compensation for their wrongful exposure.

The rally was based around a theme regarding a recent survey which was conducted by the 9/11 EA and Beyond Ground Zero groups. The survey reportedly revealed that 200 people present in the areas surrounding the World Trade Centers are still, years later, being afflicted with health problems due to toxic chemical exposure.

Many victims of benzene exposure have reported that they are chronically ill. Research also shows that only five percent were able to recover from their sicknesses, and one-third have seen no improvements.

The controversial survey calls attention to the lack of oversight, on the government’s part, into those with health problems due to the events of 9/11. Regelson and the others who took part in the rally hope that with their continued efforts victims of benzene exposure and those exposed to other cancerous chemicals will be provided the health care they need and deserve.


 

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A rally was held last week in Liberty Plaza in New York City in an effort to help those who have been affected by the toxic chemicals left behind on September 11, 2001. Among those who were a part of the rally was Esther Regelson, a local resident of the city and board member of 9/11 Environmental Action.

According to Regelson, it was the benzene burning jet fuel, joined with the mercury from the smashed fluorescent lighting, lead from the computers, and dioxins from the melting plastics that are still affecting the health of those who were around the World Trade Centers on that fateful day.

Group Committed to Helping Victims of Benzene Exposure

Regelson’s group, is a part of a major coalition that has been committed to helping better the health of post 9-11 workers. Workers and residents who inhaled toxic chemicals like benzene when the towers collapsed reportedly held placards in three different languages, demanding the U.S. government to provide them with health care and compensation for their wrongful exposure.

The rally was based around a theme regarding a recent survey which was conducted by the 9/11 EA and Beyond Ground Zero groups. The survey reportedly revealed that 200 people present in the areas surrounding the World Trade Centers are still, years later, being afflicted with health problems due to toxic chemical exposure.

Many victims of benzene exposure have reported that they are chronically ill. Research also shows that only five percent were able to recover from their sicknesses, and one-third have seen no improvements.

The controversial survey calls attention to the lack of oversight, on the government’s part, into those with health problems due to the events of 9/11. Regelson and the others who took part in the rally hope that with their continued efforts victims of benzene exposure and those exposed to other cancerous chemicals will be provided the health care they need and deserve.


 

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Recent reports express concern regarding the artificial turf that is often used at football fields at many of the country's high schools and colleges. One person discovered there could be risks first hand as he researched whether or not to order turf for the high school he works for. He still awaits the results of studies being conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before he is going to take any action, or risks. 
 
Turf: Safe or Toxic?
 
John Murray recently did some shopping, and research, for an artificial-turf field for Camden Catholic High School. What he found instead of a new field, was information that would make his decision a hard one.
 
According to Murray he came across piles of documents regarding the toxic chemicals, such as benzene, that could be found in the ground-up tires. These tires are reportedly used so the turf has enough cushioning.
 
Still Waiting on the EPA
 
It's been over a year since the EPA initially began looking into the risks behind turf and the effects it may have on children.Though they have yet to make a clear conclusion on whether turf can serve as a haven for benzene exposure or not. Meanwhile, sstatistics show that an estimated 800 turf fields continue to open throughout the country each year. at roughly 800 a year.
 
Many wonder why the EPA is stalling on their studies.
 
"If safeguarding children's health is a top priority at EPA, why can't this multibillion-dollar agency afford to take a hard look at what is in our playgrounds, schoolyards and athletic fields?" says Jeff Ruch, the director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER).
 
Until a clear answer becomes evident and publicized, Murray intends to be cautious in his decision regarding Camden's football fields and feels others should take the same precaution.

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According to recent reports, the residents of Grand Island in New York are growing increasingly concerned regarding a nearby plant they believe to be emitting benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen that can cause serious health problems to those exposed to it overtime. It is used in the production of many chemicals, gasoline, and even soft drinks and can often victimize people through inhalation and ingestion.

One resident who knows all too much about the implications of benzene exposure is Lovisa Anderson. Anderson is currently battling cancer in her lymph nodes and is undergoing intense chemotherapy. Anderson was diagnosed last year and was unaware of what may have caused her sudden cancer diagnosis until she hears about a recent study conducted by the New York Department of Conservation.

Study Exposes Ugly Truth About Local Plant

The study discovered that there were high levels of benzene in the air surrounding the community of Grand Island. The toxic air was immediately linked to the nearby Tonawanda Coke plant.
Anderson then found out that she isn't the only local resident suffering from an illness due to benzene exposure. Soon after her diagnosis, her sister-in-law, who lives down the street, was also diagnosed with cancer.Later on in the year, five more neighbors died due to exposure or are now living with cancer.

"My residents are sick, they have been sick for 30 years," stated Erie County Legislator Michele Iannello (D) at a news conference Saturday afternoon at Beaver Island State Park.
Ianello, along with state Assemblyman Sam Hoyt, environmentalists and residents are currently gathered trying to pressure the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state officials to temporarily close the toxic plant until the benzene problem is under control.

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The negative social consequences of methamphetamine usage in Cape Town has been publicly talked about, but now researchers are announcing that residents may have more to worry about. Experts are raising concerns about the negative impact the drug is having on the environment. The drug, which is more commonly referred to as tik, consists of several toxic chemicals, including the known carcinogen, benzene. 
 
Production of Meth on the Rise

According to the national narcotics head for organized crime with the SAPS, Deven Naicker, 13 kilograms and 1,953 units (tablets) were confiscated from labs throughout the world in 2007. All of the labs under investigation were reportedly manufacturing crystal methamphetamine. The problem being worse in some areas, especially Cape Town.

“It’s very concerning because six kilograms of highly toxic waste is produced from every 1kg manufactured,” says Naicker.
 
Toxic waste consisting of benzene and other harmful chemicals. All of which innocent people and the environment are then exposed to.

“The chemicals are highly toxic, and waste dumped into streams, rivers, fields, backyards and sewage systems can contaminate water resources for humans and animals,” the SAPS  website states.

The leader of the police’s forensic science and chemical laboratory in Cape Town, Commander Jaco Westraat, has stated that methamphetamine labs were a very true reality in the area and “very concerning” due to the toxic impacts of producing the drug.

“It’s very concerning because there are by products as a result of manufacturing the drug which are then simply disposed down the drain and eventually reach the environment,” says Westraat.

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Even though the demand for benzene around the world has reportedly slowed and the risks of the chemical have been confirmed, new reports claim that benzene use is expected to rise in the upcoming years. Studies show that due to the global economic downturn the supply of benzene is slowly increasing. Beginning at the end of 2009, the global capacity of benzene is expected to rise considerably, which according to researchers, is concerning. So how will the effect the United States?
 
Researchers believe that the U.S. has already taken steps in the right direction to delay this increase and prevent benzene exposure from negatively affecting more people throughout the country. The U.S. is one of the first country's who has called for benzene to be removed from gasoline. Federal regulations are going to require that the level of benzene in gasoline be lowered from 1.2% to 0.6% by 2011. 
 
What is Benzene?
 
Benzene is a known carcinogen that has been used for many years in the production of gasoline, rubber cements, spot removers, and even some soft drinks. This toxic chemical has been known to cause a variety of illness to those who are exposed to it, whether through inhalation or ingestion, over an extended period of time. Among the health conditions that can arise from benzene exposure are blood disorders like anemia and leukemia.
 
Exposure to the chemical can also lower the immune system and have a negative impact on the liver, kidneys, brain, and lungs. Thousands of lawsuit have been filed in recent years worldwide due to people, both at work and in their homes, being wrongfully exposed to benzene. Benzene attorneys have given victims of benzene exposure support and even helped them receive compensation for any health problems the chemical has caused them.

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According to recent reports, oil refiners throughout the United States are expecting to spend an estimated $832 million to lower the benzene content in gasoline. This large sum of money will supposedly go toward the engineering and construction of lowering the levels of the chemical from such a commonly used substance.

The lowering of benzene in gasoline, which contains a good portion of benzene, is expected to take at least three years, according to recently collected data. Twenty-five projects have been planned to help with the efforts to find a substitution for the chemical in gasoline in an attempt to lower benzene exposure across the country.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reportedly sparked the benzene concerns in 2007 when they issued a rule on mobile source air toxins. According to the future plans for the lowering of benzene in gasoline, Phase II of this rule is reportedly set to become effective as of January 1, 2011.

The plans state that “small refiners," are going to be allotted more time than the bigger oil refiners to become up to par with the new standards.

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Recent reports claims that the Tonawanda Coke facility in upper state New York is posing a threat to the community and environment which it surrounds. Residents are voicing their concerns about the state of the air and water in the area and are claiming that clean air is something they're "being deprived of."
 
Tonawanda Coke is just one of 52 air-regulated facilities that's located within a five-mile radius of the Town of Tonawanda. To make matters worse, it is also known to be one of the main producers of benzene. Benzene is a toxic chemical that has been linked to a variety of cancer, particularly cancers of the blood such as leukemia. Birth defects are another risk for those who are exposed to benzene in large amounts. 
 
Study Finds High Levels of Benzene at Plant
 
When the state Department of Environmental Conservation recently conducted studies at the plant, they reportedly found that the Tonawanda facility had been releasing benzene at levels that are 75 times higher than recommended guidelines. Not only are these levels abnormally and alarmingly high, but it was also discovered that they are up to two times more than what company officials have been reporting.
 
Meanwhile, more and more people in the town of Tonawanda are being diagnosed with cancers. Many believe that history is simply repeating itself, and for fear of more cancer cases being diagnosed, residents are demanding that the government take action to save their town.
 
According to reports, in 2008, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection fined a coke plant in Erie, Penn. which is under the same ownership as the Tonawanda plant for $6.1 million fine due to high levels of benzene and poor air quality violations. As of now, city officials and residents are joining forces to get the Tonawanda situation underhand and the air clean before more people become the victims of benzene exposure.

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A recent benzene leak in the small Canadian town of Sarnia caused quite a commotion and sent the community in their houses for fear of exposure to the deadly toxin. The leak reportedly came from a tank at a nearby plant, and although officials say it was a quickly contained, they did order all residents to be cautious and not be outdoors if not necessary for the rest of the day. Researchers are sill investigating exactly what caused the leak. 
 
Community Concerned About Benzene Exposure
 
Officials for the air quality in Port Huron and the surrounding communities state the communities surrounding the plant were not affected by the benzene leak. However, local residents are still concerned about the risk of benzene exposure and whether or not the toxic chemical has reached the groundwater and can affect their health in the future.
 
Benzene is a known carcinogen that can be found in many prodcuts including gasoline, cleaners, and soft drinks. If ingested or inhaled in large amounts, benzene can cause a variety of life-threatening illnesses including the deadly form of cancer known as leukemia. 
 
Fast Cleanup Takes Place to Ensure Safety
 
According to reports, ttraffic control was initiated around the Vidal Street plant immediately following the leak and Sarnia officials ordered a shelter-in-place for local residents to go to for a safe haven to prevent benzene exposure. City officials say their particular concern at that point was the sSoutheast winds that were blowing toward Sarnia homes at the time of the leak.
 
Students at nearby schools were ordered to stay indoors with all the doors and windows shut until the cleanup was finalized and the air was deemed to be safe to breathe. Air monitoring was conducted by the plant and testers claim no benzene vapor's were found in the community or near the plant. But the city is also calling a private company to ensure the continued safety of its residents. 

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More and more reports are surfacing regarding the gorwing number of cancer cases among United States marines. One marine, who has been an image of inspiration for many other cancer survivors, noticed the first sign of cancer after feeling an extreme discomfort in his chest. Rick Kelly is just one of the 20 retired U.S. Marines who once called Camp Lejeune in North Carolina their home. All of which have experienced cancer firsthand.

"My wife would hug me, and it became almost unbearable," he tells reporters. "I went to a doctor, and they sent me to the oncologist, and they did biopsies on both sides. And then I ended up with a double mastectomy."
 
Marines Diagnosed with Breast Cancer
 
Twenty marines have now come forward with their stories about living with breast cancer. Breast cancer is a rare form of cancer for men to get, only affecting one man out of every 100 women who are diagnosed. Many of the men are now having to endure chemotherapy, radiation or both. And according to reports, seven of the men have had to have part of their chest removed to help rid their bodies of the illness.
 
Another commonality among these men who once served our country? They all were victims of benzene exposure at the now infamous Camp Lejeune. Although the Marine Corps denies that the high levels of benzene found in the water at the camp is linked to these cancer cases, these men and their families tell a different story. 
 
Camp Water Contaminated with Benzene

Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998 after living at Camp Lejeune for 16 years after serving. He is now the single father of a 7-year-old boy and has been forced to file a claim with the Veterans Affairs (VA) to recevie support for his medical bills.

Although the Marine Corp refuses to take blame for the cancer that has afflcited so many men who lived at the camp Kelly and dozens of others who resided there say it has been no secret in the past few years that the water was found to contain high levels of benzene, a known carcinogen.
 
Reports claim that two years ago, Congress ordered the Marine Corps to tell all Marines and their families if they had been at risk for benzene exposure. This totaled an estimated 500,000 people. The Marines say they continue to, and have, worked with environmental and health agencies to find any links between the contamination and the many illnesses it has caused.

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Despite the outcries of the community, natural gas drilling is reportedly set to begin at Rayzor Ranch in Texas. Those living around Rayzor Ranch have been forthcoming about their concerns regarding the drilling, though city officials have dismissed their worries. The community believes that with the gas wells they will become the victims of benzene exposure.
 
Benzene is a known carcinogen that can be found in gasoline and other products. This chemical has been known to cause leukemia and other life-threatening illnesses to those who are exposed to, or inhale, it over a long period of time. Now, as many as five gas wells are set to go into a sprawling area of land amongst homes and communities. 
 
Permit Given for Drilling to Begin
 
Earlier this week the City Council reportedly voted in favor of approving Range Production Co. for a special permit that would allow them to begin the drilling of the gas wells. Many residents within the community disputed the ruling stating the city is putting them at risk for health problems and the environment will be threatened as well. More buildings and homes are also in the works to be developed on the ranch.
 
The permit supposedly has over 21 conditions attached to it. Among the conditions is one stating that the drilling for the gas wells must be done as far as possible from the homes and that the whole process can take no longer than two years. 
 
The Community Speaks Out
 
"It's going to give people cancers, so that's considered reckless endangerment of public health and safety. That's the benzenelawsuit that people will file later on when they have leukemia," states Andrew Teeter, a local resident.
Protesters were seen lining the streets outside council chambers the night the decision was made. Many residents are claiming they are willing to take legal action before drilling even begins to save the environment in which they live and for their continued health.

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The community of Sun City, located in the West Valley of Florida recently held a meeting to disucss their concerns about the quality of their air. The subject was sparked in recent months by talk of a permit that be passed for a plant to be built in the city. The plant, residents fear, could release toxic chemicals like benzene into the air and water, putting them at risk for life-threatening illnesses like leukemia.  

Transmix plants is a company that reportedly separates gasoline from diesel fuel. During this process many known carcinogens, like benzene, are released into the air and even the groudwater. Air and water that will then be inhaled and consumed by residents in Sun City. Though officials from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality repeatedly told residents at the meeting that the permits would adhere to all health and safety standards, the community still believes the risk is too great. They also realize this that people are exposed to benzene across the country yearly with the "safety" assurance from local officials.

Permit Approved Without Approval of Residents

Those in attendance at the meeting were also disappointed seeing as the officials reported the permit had already passed, when they were originally told this would be a meeting to simply "discuss" the permit and the plant.

"It seems to me the cart is in front of the horse here," a local Sun City resident stated. "It concerns me that you would come to that conclusion before hearing from the public. The fact is, Youngtown is about a half mile from that plant. My house is about a sixth of a mile from it. It very much affects us."

Shirley McDonald, who serves as the chair of the Joint Environmental Task Force, says says she is very much concerned about the location of the plant and the risk of benzene exposure it will bestow on the commmunity. She also has voiced her concern for the workers who will be employed at such a plant and their safety. 

More research and studies are now being conducted to ensure the community, environmental officials, and future plant workers that the plant will be safe and the benzene levels will be maintained at a healthy level for all. 
 

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Until now the 20 acres that is hidden between the Texas 183 and Farmers Branch Creek was considered to be a peaceful sanctuary for the many animals that lived amongst nature. Run by Deborah Rogers, this land is more like a farm with dozens of goats, chickens, dogs, and peacocks. However, just this year the Rodgers discovered that she, the animals she cared for, and the land she loved so dearly were at risk of benzene exposure without her knowledge.
 
In the spring she commissioned two lab reports to be done to ensure her home was up to par with environmental standards. The reports showed it was anything but, with toxic chemicals like benzene, chloroform, and toluene being found in high amounts. According to researchers nine of the dangerous chemicals found to be infesting the land exceeded the state's levels. A fact that meant Rodgers and her animals are at risk for suffering from the adverse effects of benzene exposure, which includes a link to the deadly form of cancer known as leukemia. 
 
What is Causing the Benzene Exposure?
 
With the help of air-quality experts, Rodgers began investigating the cause of the exposure her and her pets may have endured for many years. It is now being suggested that the benzene and other chemicals found on her plot of land are the result of a nearby gas station leakage. Though the Chesapeake gas station strongly denies responsibility for the releasing benzene into the air and the ground, Rodgers and her team of experts question the validity of these claims. 
 
Though is reason to believe it may not be just the gas station alone that is causing the benzene exposure. Officials in Chesapeake think the presence of benzene, toluene and xylene may be coming from multiple sources. Some of the sources identified are Lockheed Martin and Naval Air Station Fort Worth.

Although, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency agrees with Rodgers first guess as to where the benzene is coming from, claiming that carbon disulfide is strictly linked to natural gas production. Until a conclusion is come to regarding the chemicals found at Rodgers' land, she and her animals have been evacuated for safety purposes. More research continues to be done in hopes that the exposure won't continue and hasn't done any real harm to those living around the area or to the environment.

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Recent reports claims that Formosa Plastics Corporation, which is based out of, Point Comfort and Baton Rouge, Louisiana has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $2.8 million to resolve the many violations they were found to have committed.

This pricey settlement comes in light of an investigation conducted by The Department of Justice, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Enforcement Protection Agency that took place from November 2003 to 2004. During this time, the company reportedly went through an intense environmental evaluation.

Benzene Violations Revealed

At the time of the investigation the EPA found that Formosa has violated the Clean Air Act and repair violations. However, officials haven’t gone public on whether or not just one plant was in violation. It was also discovered that Formosa was not properly managing or monitor leaking components at the plant, putting employees and the environment at risk of being exposed to harmful chemicals like benzene.  

As part of the settlement the Point Comfort facility will be forced to make vast improvements to be up to par with safety and environmental guidelines. Among the improvements that need to be made are: to enhance the leak detection and repair program, fix or replace any leaking valves, and add more inspections of benzene waste streams. To address all their violations it’s expected that Formosa will have to spend at least $10 million.

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According to recent reports, the long list of defendants named in a benzene exposure lawsuit is beginning to size down. The lawsuit was filed by a man living in Arkansas who reportedly became ill to his exposure to benzene, a highly toxic and deadly chemical. Among those that have dropped out and settled with the man is U.S. Steel Corporation. Though the terms of their settlement with the plaintiff are being withheld from the public.

Earlier in the month, E.I. DuPont Nemours & Company, BP Amoco Chemical Company, and BP Products North America also settled out of the suit, filed by Dwayne and Debbie Davenport.  
 
Benzene Lawsuit Details

In the lawsuits, the Davenports originally named 19 defendants for strict liability, negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, conspiracy and loss of consortium counts. The couple claims that Dwayne Davenport developed Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) two years ago as a result of working with and around the cancerous chemical known as benzene. Davenport reportedly worked in the Chicago area with products containing benzene for many years during his career.

Davenport stated in the complaint that he was not made aware or warned of the dangers of benzene and that it eventually caused him to get MDS. As a result he and his wife reportedly incurred much expense through medical and hospital bills. They also state in the lawsuit that they have suffered pain, mental anguish, over the disability that will now hinder Davenport for the rest of his adult life.

The Davenports state the defendants never warned Dwayne of the dangers of the chemicals he was working with and he therefore had no knowledge about the risks associated with benzene. The couple is seeking $50,000 in compensation through the lawsuit.

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Recent reports state that a housing tract in Carson, California is contaminated with the known carcinogen benzene. Environmental activist Erin Brockovich has agreed to take action on behalf of those living in Carson and carry out a litigation against Shell Oil Co. for supposedly contaminating the area.

Representatives for Shell recently found elevated levels of methane and benzene beneath a neighborhood in Carson known as the Carousel neighborhood. Apparently after testing was conducted it was discovered that the benzene has been in this area due to oil tanks owned by the company since the 1960’s.

Brockovich Takes Action

Immediately following this discovery, Brockovich held a meeting with 300 residents who live in Carson in attempt to recruit clients to file lawsuits against Shell. Many of these lawsuits are expected to be filed within the next couple of months. At the meeting, residents were told that, in some spots of their neighborhood, benzene has been found at 100,000 times the state of California’s standard. When soil gas samples were takes, methane was found to surpass the explosive threshold.

What Are the Effects of Benzene?

Benzene is an organic chemical that has been found to be highly cancerous when exposed to it over time. Benzene exposure has been found to cause many health issues including the deadly form of cancer known as leukemia. Benzene can be found in gasoline and traces of this chemical can also be found in soft drinks and cigarettes, putting consumers at high risk of developing life threatening illnesses.

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A chemical company in Utah County is currently being sue by federal environmental protection officials for reportedly mishandling harmful chemicals including the cancer-causingbenzene. Officials claim the company left the chemicals in open vats leaving them at risk for harming the public and the surrounding environment. The lawsuit also states that the company failed to follow the required safety protocol set in place for dealing with benzene and other hazardous substances.
The lawsuit, which was filed Tuesday, claims that Parish Chemical Co. permitted hundreds of gallons of different wastes to sit in unsecured, unlabeled containers at their facility in Salt Lake City. According to the lawsuit, federal inspectors discovered the waste containers, which were clearly being mismanaged, during a 2008 site visit. The Environmental Protection Agency reportedly removed over "several hundred" containers from the site in order to lower the risk of a fire or a serious explosion from occurring. 
 
Benzene and Other Chemicals Found at Site
 
Among the substances found at the company's site were volatile materials and flammable materials including benzene, methylene chloride, acetone, and petroleum. During visits in 2007and 2008, investigators found thousands of gallons of this chemical waste which was not labeled as being hazardous or risky. Instead, the containers were simply labeled with a "?" or marked "Unknown."
 
Among the other allegations in the suit are that investigators found the wastes were shipped off-site with no records kept about safety protection or how they were handled, the wastes stored had been there for years beyond the 90-day limit that has been set in place by the EPA, there were no records of tank inspections, and there was no liability coverage in the case of an accident. 

The suit is seeking penalties of $32,500 to $37,500 for each violation by the company. Uintah Pharmaceutical Corp., is also named as a defendant in the lawsuit. Parish Chemical officials have reportedly failed to return any calls in regards to the recent filing. But it has been found that the company has a history of problems with federal inspectors. Parish Chemical was sued in 1997, for failing to clean-up hazardous wastes at their site. As a result, the company costs rose dramatically after a 1992 fire at the site.

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Recent reports state that the owner of a piece of land which used to serve as the home of an old BP station is filing a benzene lawsuit. The current owner of the land claims that the oil company has polluted his property. He also states that he has requested the company to clean up the area repeatedly and they have failed to do so. As a result he believes that he and the environment have been put at risk of benzene exposure.

The lawsuit has been filed in the U.S. District Court in Hammond, Indiana. The benzene lawsuit claims that oil company, BP, found that underground gas tanks at the gas station, had been leaking different chemicals, including the cancer-causing chemical benzene into the ground after it closed in November 2007.

According to BP officials, the company contacted the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and they were told to do further tests on the land. Since this time, tests have shown that the groundwater in the area has been contaminated with benzene and other harmful chemicals. The levels of toxins in the water is reportedly above the state’s recommended level for being safe.  

Landowner Takes Action

The owner of the land, Nicholas Marnye III Trust filed the benzene lawsuit claiming that BP has not followed through on their action plan to clean up the area. Trust says that due to the contamination and the risks the land poses, he has not been able to rent it to anyone. The suit is seeing compensation for any rent lost because of the damage, payment to cover any diminishment in value of the property and legal fees.

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These days it's common knowledge that smoking tobacco causes cancer, and that when used as directed, the product will ultimately kill you. When we think of tobacco related diseases, lung cancer and lung diseases typically come to mind, but new evidence suggests that smokers are also at increased risk of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

Exposure to the hydrocarbon benzene is a risk factor for developing MDS. Cigarettes contain benzene as an additive. Benzene also occurs naturally as a byproduct of combustion, so smokers get a double dose of the carcinogen. 

MDS is a bone marrow failure (BMF) disorder that is associated with benzene exposure. BMF disorders interfere with the body's ability to create new blood cells, severely compromising the immune system. Effective treatments include blood transfusions, and stem cell transplants. The latter can cure the condition, but only for those fortunate enough to find a matching donor.

The authors of the new study say that the results make "biological sense." They say that this is not only because cigarettes are a leading benzene exposure source, but also because smoking causes chromosomal abnormalities also associated myelodysplastic syndromes.

The study was a review of ten previous studies and was carried out by researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, Amgen, The Cleveland Clinic, and SUNY downstate. 

Authors of the study concluded that smokers are 45% more likely to develop MDS, than non-smokers. 

 

 

 

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A few weeks back I posted about an L.A. County housing tract in Carson Ca. found to be heavily contaminated with underground benzene and methane. The pollution came from defunct underground tanks operated by Shell Oil Co. on the site for forty years ending in 1960.

When I last posted about this, the nightmare was just beginning for those living in the 275 home Carousel neighborhood. Barbara Post, president of the Carousel Homeowners' Association had said:

"Chemicals are a serious matter, we have to trust that Shell is going to take care of it for us."

Trusting Shell is not a good plan, fortunately Barbara Post is starting to see more clearly:

"I've been worried about this, but I'm scared to death now, Shell can't replace my house, and they can't replace that neighborhood."

Weeks ago Shell had only drilled samples from the public roads and had just begun asking home owners for permission to test private properties. Shell, of course, was optimistic:

 "We don't believe that there is reason to be concerned from a safety perspective, but we felt like it was the right thing to do to make sure there were not the same levels detected on residential properties."-Shell spokeswoman Alison Chassen

Would Chassen be concerned if it were her neighborhood? Definitely. It is well known that subterranean benzene has a nasty habit of seeping into structures built above it, and contaminating ground water.

Benzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon and known human carcinogen. It interferes with the body's ability to produce new blood cells, a crucial part of the human immune system. Benzene exposure has been linked to debilitating and potentially fatal blood diseases like acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The possibility of people contracting these disorders should be of concern from any reasonable "safety perspective."

Recently, 300 residents met with lawyers to discuss a lawsuit against Shell. According to the lawyers, at some sites, benzene levels are 100,000 times accepted state standards. Robert Bowcock, an environmental consultant hired by the law firm told residents:

 "You've been exposed to a very high level, I'm incensed and angry that Shell let this happen. Shell is not interested in being your friend. They will do absolutely the minimum they are required to do. We know the games they can play and we're going to hold their feet to the fire."

Precedent indicates that Bowcock is correct. A benzene lawsuit is the only way to force Shell to properly compensate residents for damage to their properties, and their health.



 

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In June, Benzene Leukemia Law Blog covered an Associated Press (AP) story about possible health risks associated with the inhalation of chemicals due to the use of used shredded tires (known as playground tire crumb) as an injury reducing playground surface. The popular material is also used on modern artificial turf playing fields.

Shredded tires contain high levels of carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene, in addition to lead and other heavy metals. According to the June AP article the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was in the process of conducting air and surface samples at four playgrounds.

Although the EPA for years has endorsed recycled-rubber surfaces as a means of decreasing playground injuries, its own scientists now have pointed to research suggesting potential hazards from repeated exposure to bits of shredded tire that can contain carcinogens and other chemicals, according to internal EPA documents.

The scientists cited gaps in scientific evidence, despite other reviews showing little or no health concern, and urged their superiors to conduct a broad health study to inform parents on kids’ safety.

Results from the agency’s limited study, which began last year, are expected within weeks.

It all seemed very reasonable. Maybe using a highly toxic material, in a shredded form, on playgrounds, could be bad for children. Worth a study right?

Well... not exactly. According to a report from investigative reporter Andrew Schneider this week at coldtruth.com, the EPA fell a bit short on this "study."

The following quotes cite documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER.)

Schneider:

Earlier this month, Eric Wachter, director of the EPA Office of the Executive Secretariat replied and conceded that “The Agency has not conducted research to evaluate children’s ‘health effects’ from tire crumb constituents.” (emphasis mine)

Wachter wrote that EPA only did a “literature review” in 2008 and after that began a “very limited methods evaluation study” of “available monitoring methods for characterizing environmental contaminant concentrations at those recreational fields” but has not yet finished even that, says PEER.

The above doesn't check out with the following late June quotes found in the Philadelphia Enquirer from the EPA's press wing:

The preliminary results of a new study by the Environmental Protection Agency may contain good news for field operators. The raw data shows there is no inhalation danger to children who play on various types of artificial fields and play surfaces, according to EPA spokesman Dale Kemery.

“It appears that the results are echoing the New York findings,” Kemery said, citing reports issued last month by the New York state government. The reports found no “detrimental health or environmental effects.”

The EPA study also will address concerns that carcinogens may be emitted from pulverized rubber tires that provide cushioning for many newer-generation, mixed-fiber fields, and play surfaces.

But why would the EPA go to the trouble of pointing out possible health risks of shredded tire playground surfacing and then pretending to launch a study finding it to be safe?

Now we enter into the realm of speculation. Allow me to. Any reasonable person could deduce that using a shredded tires, which contain concentrated carcinogens and heavy metals, in a play area, could possibly be unsafe. Anyone who has ever smelled a modern playground on a sunny day will agree, there is a definite odor, implying that particles from the tires are present in the air. So the EPA acts like they're on the job, ready to address this inherently reasonable concern. Do they have any intention of finding it unsafe or even really studying it? No.

Because of their highly toxic ingredients tires are not allowed in landfills and cannot be burned as they were in the past, they really start to pile up. So you have a major industry around selling recycled tires. Hey, it's green! The EPA notoriously stays out of the way of industry of any kind. When absolutely forced to, they routinely slap big polluters with minuscule fines, thus creating an allowing a culture of  affordable polluting to persist throughout the country. In the U.S. today, largely thanks the the EPA's lackluster performance, it's cheaper to pollute all you want and pay the little fines, on the off chance you are ever caught.

So there's my impolite take on it, here's what Jeff Ruch, executive director of PEER had to say:

The polite way to say it is EPA misled parents and the public into believing it was actually addressing potential toxic exposure risks to kids. Incredibly, EPA takes the position it does not know enough to withdraw its endorsement of playground tire crumb. Common sense and a precautionary approach to children’s health dictate that EPA should not endorse something that it has not examined.

There is a humorous side to all of this. The EPA thought they could do this weak "evaluation" call it a study and rely on their press people to spin things up, making themselves look cautious while giving  playground tire crumb a solid future. HA! maybe ten years ago! This is the age of information. Fools.

 

 

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A young New Zealand man, Scott Gill, was recently sentenced to community service after burning more than twenty "tyres" (tires) at his birthday party.

Local firefighters put out the flames, but Gill reignited the tires, forcing firefighters to return.

In the courtroom, Judge Colin Doherty said that those present at the party were exposed to benzene levels "120 times the health safety level."

Until I came across this recent article, it hadn't occurred to me to blog about the dangers of tire burning and benzene exposure, because I naively thought recreational tire burning had fallen out of favor with the masses.

So for the record, here's a brief outline of why not to burn tires: 

Tires are manufactured from petrochemical feedstocks such as styrene and butadiene, which are both being classified as human carcinogens. Styrene is a benzene derivative and burning tires releases styrene and several benzene compounds.-Dr. Neil Carman, Hazards of Burning Tires

In addition to the above carcinogens, hundreds of other toxic chemicals are aslo released when tires are burned.

 

 

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In their own words:

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. LLS's mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since the first funding in 1954, LLS has awarded more than $600 million in research funding.

In 2009, LLS celebrates its 60th anniversary with the launch of a special Web site, lls.org/innovation. Moving forward, our goal for the future is one in which LLS has transformed the lives of people with blood cancer and the health care landscape that patients, families and caregivers navigate. Your stories are a part of our history and our future. We urge patients, caregivers and our fundraisers alike to share them and celebrate our mission.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Home Office is based in White Plains, NY. To learn more about us, use our Chapter Finder to find the LLS chapter in your area, or contact us via email or phone at (800) 955-4572.

LLS is an amazing organization and a great resource for those touched by leukemia and lymphoma. The new site is nicely done!
 

 

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Parish chemical Co. in Vineyard Utah faces a lawsuit filed late last week by the EPA. The suit stems from a 2008 inspection during which federal investigators discovered a staggering collection of toxic waste sitting “unsecured” in hundreds of open vats and containers.

According to the suit, the containers were “failing” and “improperly managed.” In order to “reduce the potential of fire and/or explosion,” EPA workers removed hundreds of the containers from the site.

Appallingly, many of the containers were not labeled as hazardous or had no label, others sported question marks, or labels reading “unknown.”

The lack of care clearly displayed by the company was not because the chemicals were considered benign, the substances discovered at Parish are some of the most flammable, volatile, and health hazardous chemicals currently in use. The list includes methylene chloride, acetone, petroleum ether, benzene, toluene, and perchloric acid.

The following list of additional allegations appeared in yesterday’s Salt Lake Tribune:

•  Records for wastes shipped off-site were incomplete.
•  Drums had collapsed or were in poor condition.
•  Hazardous wastes were stored for years beyond a 90-day limit.
•  There was no record of tank inspections or air emissions tests.
•  The company did not have liability coverage for accidents.

According to the lawsuit, the cost of the federal response was $640,000. The suit seeks penalties of $32,500 to $37,500 per violation.

This type of reckless behavior puts workers at risk of unnecessary chemical exposure. Obviously Parish Chemical Co. has a very lax attitude about storing dangerous waste which directly indicates a lax attitude towards worker health and longevity.

All of the above listed chemicals are hazardous to human health, especially benzene. Long term exposure to the chemical severely impairs the immune system by disrupting the body's ability to produce blood cells, this can result in a number of potentially fatal hematological disorders like, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Parish will lose this case and pay a relatively small fine, but in situations like this it's the workers that really lose. At place like Parish an employee who regularly clocks in to do his or her job could be rewarded with a debilitating and potentially fatal illness. Sadly this is not uncommon, even with today's laws and safeguards workers are often sickened due to the actions of their employers.

If you or a loved one have been wrongfully harmed by benzene at work, it is important to speak with a benzene lawyer without delay. Some states have statues of limitations (time limits) that could block you from compensation. Reputable benzene lawyers charge nothing to discuss your case, and only receive payment if your case is successful.

 

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Today we remember the terrible tragedy of 9/11, and honor those who lost their lives. It is central to the future of our nation that we now seek to understand gross failure of the EPA, which worked closely with the Bush administration in the aftermath of the destruction, to deliberately downplay the risks associated with the toxic smoke from the fallen towers. 

A report filed by the Office of the Inspector General of the EPA in August 2003 explains that the Bush White House censored EPA press releases:

"When the EPA made a September 18 announcement that the air was 'safe' to breathe, it did not have sufficient data and analysis to make such a blanket statement. Furthermore, the White House Council on Environmental Quality influenced . . . the information that EPA communicated to the public through its early press releases when it convinced EPA to add reassuring statements and delete cautionary ones," (emphasis mine.)

In an Orwellian twist, an EPA statement pointing out that dust samples from lower Manhattan contained higher than safe levels of asbestos was changed by the White House to read: "samples confirm previous reports that ambient air quality meets OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards and consequently is not a cause for public concern."

The report also showed that language in part of an EPA draft which stated that asbestos levels in some areas were three times higher than national safety standard was changed to "slightly above the 1 percent trigger for defining asbestos material.

Among the deleted cautionary statements was a warning to "sensitive populations"  such as the elderly, and those with asthma and respiratory diseases.

Also deleted by the White House, a recommendation that Ground Zero should be cleaned by professionals. According to the 2003 report the recommendation was replaced with instructions for the public to "follow instructions from New York City Officials."

Here's what Mayor Giuliani said on September 30Th:

“There is a lot of questions about the air quality because there are at times in downtown Manhattan and then sometimes even further beyond that, a very strong odor. The odor is really just from the fire and the smoke that continues to go on. It is monitored constantly and is not in any way dangerous. It is well below any level of problems and any number of ways in which you test it.”

The October 26, 2001 New York Daily News article by Juan Gonzalez, "A Toxic Nightmare at Disaster Site," exposed that the EPA had indeed found that benzene and dioxin levels at Ground Zero were well in excess of acceptable levels.

Many of the Ground Zero responders, selflessly working to save fellow Americans, would surely have been there regardless of any warnings about toxic air. I speculate that many responders were aware of the toxic dangers they bravely faced, it doesn't take an EPA specialist to figure out that smoke from burning buildings probably contains toxins. But why wouldn't OSHA enforce normal worker safety standards especially months after 9/11, well past the emergency?

As a result of this high level downplaying of dangers, many who worked at Ground Zero in the months following 9/11 are now suffering greatly.

One recent study found that 25% of Ground Zero workers continue to suffer lung aliments.

Another new study recently covered by Benzene Leukemia Law Blog, reported that 9/11 responders face increased risk of multiple myeloma, a disease that is increasingly being linked to benzene exposure. Read the Post...

Ground Zero workers have not been compensated by the government in any way for the harm they have suffered as a result of their heroic actions. The Feal-Good Foundation, is a non-profit organization started by disabled ground zero worker John Feal, that raises money to help those harmed by their service at Ground Zero. Click here to check out the website and find out how you can help. While you're there, check out the eye opening video "Save The Brave," which outlines the plight of 9/11 Ground Zero workers.

 

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The lone star state is no stranger to controversy around problems with air pollution. Houston, Dallas, and many other major Texas cities are found on the federal government's dirty air list due to elevated ground level ozone pollution. This week the EPA said that Texas air pollution rules are out of compliance with the federal Clean Air Act, and proposed an abolition of current permitting practices.

Houston Mayor Bill White told San Antonio Express-News:

 “We think Texas' procedures should be improved.”

 “We were given only a few weeks to protest a permit that would allow dozens of tons of benzene per year to be put into our air, and there has been no action on the objection to the permit for over six months.” 

The permit would have renewed the company's ability to release 45 tons of benzene per year over the next ten years. Even without the renewal, current regulations allow Lyondell to continue releasing benzene, a known carcinogen, at it's current levels.

Critics of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's pollution permitting procedures argue that the organization ignores other nearby facilities and their emissions when considering permits.

Mayor White:

"Each request is approved in a vacuum. Procedures today are tilted towards those putting cancer-causing chemicals in the air in large quantities and against those representing the public interest. They require people objecting to the permit to respond to an application within a matter of weeks, even if the polluter took months to prepare the application, and then the polluter can continue putting chemicals in the air under the old permit even after the old permit expired. That's just not right.”

But wait... what does TCEQ have to say for itself? Here's Richard Hyde, the agency's deputy director:

"Texas is a big state, and we have a lot of permitting programs that are significantly larger than other states. The EPA has a mindset that is a lot different than ours about how we achieve emissions reduction.”

He's right folks, Texas is big! So are their permitting programs, (so what?)

He's also spot on in the second sentence, the EPA has a mindset towards actual emissions reduction, the TCEQ has a mindset of using loopholes and ignoring data, which actually increases emissions. Two very different mindsets indeed.

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On May 30, 2008 Ned Prather stopped by his cabin northwest of Parachute Colorado. After  drinking water from his spring, he became violently ill and went to the hospital.

Testing of his water source revealed the presence of benzene, a carcinogenic substance used in oil and gas drilling.

The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission responded by issuing notices of alleged violation to four oil and gas companies operating near the creek. The commission later dropped allegations against three of the companies after tests they say revealed that the contamination was coming from west of the creek, where only Williams Productions has operations.

Commission Director Dave Neslin:

“But we have not yet identified a specific release point.” 

Not surprisingly, Williams spokeswoman Susan Alvillar denies that the company is responsible.

How does she know? The company's own investigations, of course.

According to Richard Djokic, an attorney representing Prather and other partial owners of the affected property, his clients are upset that potential polluters are off the hook before the benzene source has even been determined.  

Djokic:

“They’ve asked the suspects to conduct the investigation,”

The ongoing benzene contamination has harmed Prather's hunting outfitting business.

Prather's story is not rare, property owners who live in proximity to oil and gas exploration and development have always faced potential water contamination problems. Of course, the companies are always sure that they are no to blame. It may be difficult to prove, but the fact is the benzene in Prather's spring came from some type of oil and gas co. operation.

Benzene is an organic solvent used widely in the industrial sector. Exposure to benzene is linked with debilitating and potentially fatal bone marrow failure disorders like, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and acute myeloid leukemia.

Those who have been wrongfully harmed by benzene should speak with a benzene attorney and discuss their case. Benzene victims have nothing to loose by speaking to a benzene attorney as most do not accept payment unless a case is successful.

If you have been harmed by benzene, call a benzene attorney today, you may be able to receive monetary compensation for your ordeal.

 

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Uniondemocrat.com reports that the Calaveras County Ca, Board of Supervisors is poised to relax restrictions that have barred local waste districts from dumping sludge containing hydrocarbons in excess of 1,000 ppm, in the county's only solid waste facility.

The Rock Creek Solid Waste Facility does not currently accept "bio-solids," as the sludge is known. The material contains upwards of 1000ppm of benzene, and methane.

A Public Works Department report says that state law and Rock Creek's own environmental impact report would allow this dumping, and that the move would save local waste districts money by eliminating the need to truck the waste to a private land fill in Stockton.

Public Works Director Tom Garcia:

“It solves a big problem, I don’t expect it to be a controversial issue.”

If he really doesn't expect controversy, then why is he bringing it up? It could be an attempt to pre-marginalize any dissenters.  

Why would people have a problem with this? Because hydrocarbons, such as benzene, are known carcinogens which are linked with potentially fatal health problems. Anyone living nearby has a right to be concerned.

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Dailybreeze.com reports that Shell Oil Co. has found the ground beneath the Carousel housing tract in Carson Ca., to be extensively contaminated with benzene and methane. 

The contamination is thought to stem from shell owned oil reserves operated on the land from the 1920's to 1960's. In those days, oil was stored in subterranean concrete lined tanks which are now illegal due to problems with leakage. Today oil is stored in above ground tanks.

Barbara Post, president of the Carousel Homeowners' Association said:

"Chemicals are a serious matter, we have to trust that Shell is going to take care of it for us."

So far, Shell seems to be reacting to the situation responsibly, but that attitude seems a bit naive. If one must trust Shell to take care of something like this, I would recommend also taking all possible measures toward forcing them to do the right thing.

Oil companies can be counted on to downplay any contamination related issue, here's a text book quote from shell spokeswoman Alison Chassen:

"We don't believe that there is reason to be concerned from a safety perspective, but we felt like it was the right thing to do to make sure there were not the same levels detected on residential properties."

No reason for concern? Very comforting I'm sure to for the 275 home owners on the Carousel tract.

Chassen is full of it. There is at the very least, some reason for concern in the area of safety when your neighborhood is found to be sitting on a toxic chemical plume. One such reason is that extensive subterranean benzene contamination has been known release fumes that seep into the structures located over the plume, potentially exposing residents to one of the most carcinogenic substances known to humans. 

Benzene exposure has been linked to debilitating and potentially fatal blood diseases like acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The possibility of people contracting these disorders should be of concern from any reasonable "safety perspective."

So far the testing has been done only on public rights of way, Shell is now seeking home owner's permission to test their yards.

The Regional Water Quality Control Board is overseeing the testing.

 

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According to the Indianapolis Star, the Indianapolis based chemical plant Vertellus, formerly Reily Tar & Chemical Co., has agreed to pay a 425,000 in fines and to a two year  $705,000 repair plan aimed at leak prevention and emissions monitoring.

Failure to comply with [chemical] leak detection and repair requirements under federal emissions standards for hazardous air pollutants was the rap.

The company arrogantly professed:

"[Vertellus] is confident that these emissions did not have any effect on it's employees or neighbors."

Translation: 

"Vertillus is confident that you people can't prove anything and cannot afford to oppose us. Don't mess with us...

Benzene has a long history of association with illness. Even when first manufactured in the early 1800's, benzene was suspected of harming human health. In 1928 the first study came out validating long held fears that benzene increases the risk of leukemia. In 1948 the American Petroleum Institute published a toxicological review of benzene stating that benzene caused leukemia, and that there was no safe exposure level.

Since then many studies have firmly established that benzene exposure can lead to acute myelogenous leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes and more. 

A recent study on Chinese workers found that airborne benzene levels of just 1ppm, (allowable levels according to OSHA and NIOSH standards,) caused a notable reduction in blood cell production. This shed light on the possibility that long term exposure to even minute levels of the chemical could lead to the bone marrow failure disorders mentioned in the above paragraph.

Over a hundred years of evidence links benzene to sickness and death. Thishas lead to reductions in it's use, and stricter regulation by OSHA and NIOSH limiting work place exposure. Both agencies still allow some airborne benzene to be present in work environments.

If you or a loved one have been harmed by benzene, a benzene lawyer is your best bet. Benzene lawyers know how to handle powerful corporations and make them pay for carelessly harming workers, and those who live in close proximity to industry.

 

 

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Due to the wide use of toxic materials in modern construction, indoor air is often more polluted than the air outside a building, even in polluted urban areas.

NASA scientists have compiled a list of houseplants they have found most useful in absorbing harmful gases, and biologically degrading these toxins before they can build up.

The following houseplants are considered by NASA to be the most effective in removing benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and carbon monoxide:

• Bamboo palm
• Chinese evergreen
• English ivy
• Gerbera daisy
• "Janet Craig" Dracaena
• Dracaena "Marginata"
• Corn plant
• Mother-in-Law's Tongue
• Chrysanthemum
• Peace lily
• Dracaena "Warneckii"

Concerned about that last Benzene Leukemia Law Blog post? Get more plants!

 

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A new study receiving lots of attention this week has shown that burning common paraffin wax based candles releases potentially harmful pollutants.

Scientists from South Carolina State University burned candles in a special chamber so as to monitor the contents of the smoke, and found that benzene, toluene and ketones where present.

Benzene has been linked to bone marrow failure disorders like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute lymphocytic leukemia. Toluene and ketones are associated with asthma and birth defects.

Researcher and study co-author Amid Hamidi:

"Each time a candle is burned, if it is paraffin, which is basically petroleum-based, it provides really nasty chemicals in the emissions."

How worried should we be? Hamidi clarifies:

"Candles are so widespread, an occasional paraffin candle and its emissions will not likely affect you. But lighting many paraffin candles every day for years or lighting them frequently in an unventilated bathroom around a tub, for example, may cause problems."

The researchers also looked at emissions from vegetable and beeswax based candles.

Hamidi:

"Although more expensive, apparently [they] are healthier. They do not release potentially harmful amounts of indoor air pollutants while retaining all of the warmth, ambiance and fragrance of paraffin candles (which are made from petroleum).

OK, here's the grain of salt. The study was funded by a grant tilted "Soybean Candles for a healthy Life and well Being."

As you might imagine the National Candle Association does not agree with this study, and points to a German study it funded which found that paraffin based wax candles are safe.

Barbara Miller, spokesperson for the National Candle Association:

“all candles burn about the same way … When you burn a candle properly, you should get carbon dioxide and water vapor.”

Burn a candle properly? How many ways are there to burn one?

Lets be clear, benzene is a natural byproduct of combustion, if you chose to burn anything at all inside your house, your indoor benzene levels will go up.

There's no doubt in my mind that burning paraffin candles is less healthy than burning "natural wax" candles. I would have told you that well before this study, which is just more fodder in the ongoing battle between "conventional" and "natural" products. 

 

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Researchers at the University of Houston will soon be working with The Texas Institute for Genomic Medicine, and Indiana University, in an effort to understand how industrial chemicals such as benzene, lead, mercury, arsenic and carbon monoxide, affect human health.

Funded by a $3.2 million U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant, the study will seek a more reliable chemical risk assessment that will shed light on how chemicals affect humans.

University of Houston Assistant Professor Maria Bondesson:

"There are so many industrial chemicals in the environment -- more than 80,000 -- but only a few are tested for their danger levels and, moreover, the synergies between them aren't being analyzed. One barrier to the current methods of testing such toxins has been that rats and mice are only exposed to one chemical at a time, which slows down the assessment of risks and does not address the fact that people are exposed to several chemicals at once in real life, many of which interact with each other."

This is a very important field of study as our current understanding of toxin exposure is extremely limited. 

 

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In what amounts to a mere slap on the wrist, Exxon Mobil Corp., the world's largest publicly traded oil company, has been found guilty of killing migratory birds in five states.

The violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act involved large open air natural gas and well reserve pits, and waste water storage ponds, containing high levels of benzene, arsenic, lead, mercury, actetone, and more.

An estimated 85 protected birds died between 2004 and 2009 after exposure to the toxic pits and ponds in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado and Wyoming.

600,000 wow! that'll teach 'em for good! (they make that amount every five minutes, 24/7.)

As long as it's cheaper to pay fines that to do the right thing initially, we're going to continue to see lots of illegal pollution from the oil giants.

 

 

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The Texas legal journal Southeast Texas Record reports that "a man who claims he was exposed to benzene and other carcinogens throughout his career with the Kansas City Southern Railway Co. has filed suit against his former employer."

Richard Czuprynski says that during his employment with KCS, he was exposed to benzene, xylene, toluene, mixed solvents and diesel exhaust (which also contains benzene and other chemicals).

Czuprynski worked for the railway as a conductor, brakeman and engineer, from 1976 through march of this year.

The suit lists a number of "negligent acts" on the part of the KCS:

• failure to provide a safe place to work
• failure to limit hazardous substance exposure
• failure to warn of dangers of hazardous substances
• failure to provide adequate protective equipment

Czuprynski alleges that he developed the blood disease non-Hodgkin's lymphoma as a result of his exposure to benzene. According to the suit he seeks compensation for his mental anguish, physical pain and suffering, lost earnings and benefits, and the related medical costs.

Czuprynski has a solid case here, he was clearly exposed to benzene on the job for years, and has a blood disorder that is clearly linked to benzene. The odds of a favorable outcome lie with Czuprynski.

Many Americans have been needlessly and carelessly exposed to benzene over the course of their careers leaving many who were simply doing their jobs sick and unable to work.

The fact is that industry has been aware of the dangers of benzene and of evidence that it causes cancer for over a hundred years. Today science continues to link specific blood disorders and leukemias with benzene exposure. The growing list includes non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia.

If you or a loved one have worked in an industrial setting for any extended period and have been diagnosed with any of the above conditions, contact a benzene lawyer immediately. In some states statutes of limitations (time limits) exist that could prevent you from successfully obtaining compensation, even though your case may be cut and dry.  

 

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USnews.com reports that 9/11 responders may face increased risk of the hematological disease multiple myeloma.

The brave and selfless heroes who worked at Ground Zero in the wake of the World Trade Center bombings have in many cases sacrificed their health for the good of the country. Most of them probably would have been there even if the EPA had not deliberately downplayed the risks posed by massive exposure to the carcinogenic dust and smoke. Perhaps if the EPA had taken the threat more seriously, more precautions could have been taken to protect the health and futures of those who risked it all to help others in our country's hour of need. 

Countless photos show responders wearing SARS style dust masks, which in this case were the breathing protection equivalent of a sugar pill, not up to the task of filtering carcinogens from heavily chemical laden smoke.

The recent upswing of multiple myeloma in ground zero workers is being seen as the beginning of a "third wave" of debilitating ground zero related illness. The first wave was coughing and acute respiratory distress and the "second wave" was chronic lung diseases. Dr. Robin Herbert, co-director of the World Trade Center Medical Monitoring Program fears that this "third wave" could last for decades as most workers can safely be said to have inhaled large quantities of carcinogens, and many cancers take years to develop.

Alarmingly, though multiple myeloma is almost always a disease of the the elderly, with only 1% of cases found in patients under 40, half of the cases diagnosed in 9/11 rescue workers were identified among law enforcement officers under the age of 45. 

Dr. Denise Pereira, assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine said:

 "A lot of the things they were exposed to, such as benzene, have in the past possibly been implicated with an increased incidence in the cancer. It does make theoretical sense."

Benzene exposure has been proven to affect blood cell production in humans and is already linked to several other diseases of the blood and marrow such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Peter Grandich, a billionaire philanthropist dedicated to supporting 9/11 workers said:.

"Of the 40,000 people who responded to ground zero after the attacks, 70 percent, or 33,000, are sick or dying as a result of their service, we are talking about thousands of EMTs [Emergency Medical Technicians], EMS [Emergency Medical Service] workers, police, fire, military, construction workers and volunteers from all over the country who now suffer from breathing and lung ailments, post-traumatic stress disorder, organ failure and other horrific physical and mental illnesses."

Many of these folks are now unable to work. Grandich expressed outrage at the plight of these brave souls: 

"As an American and a native New Yorker, I'm extremely upset that the true heroes of America's greatest single tragedy are being totally discarded and left to literally die. And, despite this truly appalling occurrence, not one of them has been known to say if they had to do it all over again, they wouldn't"

The U.S government should compensate all of these people and take care of them and their families for the rest of their lives. Their service to our country and the victims of 9/11 should be generously rewarded (I mean money here folks).

Since the above will probably never happen, especially since most of our tax dollars have recently been handed to corrupt bankers in what will one day be seen as the greatest most ingenious robbery in the history of human kind, the task of helping these families falls on you and me.

The Feal-Good Foundation, is a non-profit organization started by disabled ground zero worker John Feal, that raises money to help those harmed by their service at ground zero. Click here to check out the website and find out how you can help. While you're there, check out the eye opening video "Save The Brave," which outlines the plight of 9/11 ground zero workers.

 

 

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Old underground gas storage tanks put people at risk of exposure to benzene and other carcinogens. As these tanks deteriorate, they release their content into the ground, threatening to poison ground water, and drinking water wells.

According to a 2005 Sierra Club report, in 2005 the U.S. had 680,000 leaking underground storage tanks, with about 9,000 new leaks discovered annually. 

Fortunately the recent economic stimulus package includes $197,000 for storage tank cleanup. The funds are to be used for sites of unknown ownership, or where property owners are unwilling or unable to pay for the cleanup.

Margret Levin of the Sierra Club said:

"The longer that leaking tanks remain buried and aren’t cleaned up, the greater the chance of ground water contamination. The gasoline and oil from the tanks contain toxic substances such as benzene, toluene and heavy metals that can cause cancer and other health problems."

“The money that we’re getting won’t completely solve the problem, but it will help,” 

Long term exposure to even small amounts of benzene has been shown to reduce white blood cell counts, and has been linked to life threatening blood diseases and leukemias like, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

People living near old or even newer gas stations, or any buried gas or oil tanks, face possible water table or well contamination and should consider having their water tested for petrochemicals.

If you or a loved one have been wrongfully exposed to benzene, your best ally is a qualified benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers are familiar with all the issues surrounding wrongful benzene exposure, and are equipped to go up against even the most powerful corporations in order to obtain compensation for victims. A reputable benzene lawyer will ask for no money unless they win your case. If there is any chance you've been exposed, you owe it to yourself to contact a benzene lawyer today.

 

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A Sinclair owned crude oil refinery in Tulsa Oklahoma has been slapped with several safety violations after it was inspected by The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (OSHA).

The investigation was part of OSHA's National Emphasis Program for Petroleum Refineries. The program seeks to insure that refineries across the nation are in compliance with OSHA's process safety management regulations.

David Bates, OSHA’s area director in Oklahoma City said: “Failure to effectively implement OSHA’s process safety management regulations to protect employees from potential hazards at high risk facilities, such as petrochemical refineries, will not be tolerated, this planned inspection has identified hazards for corrective action to help prevent accidents or injuries.” The plant received one serious citation that included 38 violations. OSHA defines a serious violation as one that involves "substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known." That citation involved problems with process safety management, portable fire extinguishers, emergency response and evacuation, benzene, hexavalent chromium, electrical problems, chemical storage, compressed gas cylinders and walking/working surfaces. The other citation was classified by OSHA as willful, meaning the company never addressed hazards identified in an earlier OSHA inspection. This involved electrical equipment deemed capable of igniting flammable vapors, and the need for early warning devices for flammable and toxic releases. Proposed penalties will be in the area of 240,000.

 

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According to the World Health Organization over 25% of illness world wide is caused by environmental toxins, meaning pollution.

Arguably, the ignorance that allowed humans to mindlessly pollute the planet in pursuit of economic prosperity fueled the industrial revolution and allowed the rise of industrialized nations in the 20th century. However, today there are many reasons why this mentality must be cast aside. Modern science has recently shed light on just how negatively pollution can affect our health and our environment. 

Benzene, just one carcinogen of the many found in modern pollution, has been shown to dramatically increase the risk of life threatening hematological (blood) diseases like aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, and leukemias such as acute lymphocytic leukemia, and acute myelogenous leukemia. 

I'm sure many would point out that we have improved our nation's air quality in the last 30 years, and that our air is now cleaner than ever. While this may be true, a large portion of our population is breathing toxic air daily. And while we're on the subject, let's remember the developing world. A major reason our air here in the U.S. is cleaner these days is that many big polluters have moved to to poorer nations with little or no regulation of pollution. This forces levels of pollution unknown in today's U.S., on millions of the world's poorest people.

Our air may be cleaner than ever, but in many densely populated parts of the U.S. the air quality is cause for alarm. Recent revelations as to the toxicity of the air outside many U.S. schools has lead the EPA to launch an unprecedented new air toxics monitoring initiative that will analyze the air outside 62 schools in 22 states. The schools are all in areas which according to government data, are determined to be toxic hot spots.

The EPA acknowledges that this program comes in the wake of a recent USA Today study which used government data to show that air outside 435 schools was more toxic than than air outside Meredeth Hitchens Elementary. Hitchens Elementary was an Ohio school closed in 2005 after the Ohio EPA discovered air born carcinogen concentrations 50 times higher than acceptable state levels.

Clearly we still have work to do cleaning up our nation's air.

For all it's hyperbole, I got a kick out of the following editorial from Ohio's Ironton Tribune which makes the case for clean air as a inalienable right for all Americans. While a shade nationalistic I agree with this sentiment though I would extend the right to all inhabitants of the planet, and call it a human right. I think that the idea will almost certainly be embraced as the information age allows humans to learn exactly what they are breathing, and why it's dangerous:

"When our founding fathers wrote that all Americans had certain inalienable rights they were trying to secure key liberties they felt all citizens deserved.

"Life, Liberty and the pursuit of happiness" were chief among these. It would have been impossible for the authors of the Declaration of Independence to know there was at least one more they should have included: the right to breathe clean air..."

Continue reading...

These days you've just got to ask yourself, why should anyone be allowed to release known carcinogens, at any level, into the air we all have to breathe?

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Two years ago, a massive plume of toxic chemicals was discovered beneath the site of a Sydney waterfront development. Now Australia's tax payers face footing the $98m clean-up bill.

Australia's Environment Protection Authority just declared that chemical leaching of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene and cyanide at the site poses "a significant risk of harm to human health and the environment" also pointing out the the chemicals are at "concentrations significantly exceeding trigger values for the protection of human health". 

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, it has also recently come to light that, "the contaminated groundwater is making its way into Darling Harbor, potentially killing marine life at the tourist hot spot."

The Herald also pointed out that:

There is a distinct possibility the site's polluter, Alinta, may escape the cost of the clean-up because a higher threshold of remediation is required to allow residential towers on the site.  

This would be normal as well engineered loopholes often allow polluting corporations to escape cleaning up the toxic messes they create worldwide.

Chief executive of the Barangaroo Development Authority, John Tabart, says the site is safe because "contaminated ground water is away from the public." he continued:

"It is controlled... and removed from that area, [but] this can't continue on and that is why there is now a remediation order."

Folks like Mr. Talbert are often overly optimistic about remediation and the safety of highly toxic sites. It would be nice if contaminated ground water didn't pose a threat to the public due to it's being underground, that would seem logical to those unfamiliar with benzene plumes. At best Mr. Talbert is unaware that in areas heavily contaminated with aromatic hydrocarbons, vapors have been known to rise to the surface sometimes seeping into homes. Also, underground chemical plumes are notoriously difficult to completely remediate, meaning there will likely be some amount of benzene present under the site for a very long time.

Recently a government gazette said this about the contaminated groundwater at the site:

"[The contaminated groundwater] is impacting the surrounding areas, including the basement of a residential building adjacent to the site, potentially exposing humans in that building to harmful vapors; however, it is currently being effectively controlled."

Prolonged exposure to benzene has been linked to severe and potentially fatal blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and others. According to the World Health Organization, humans should take all possible measures to avoid benzene whenever possible.  

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The Genovique Specialties plant in Chestertown Maryland is at odds with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) regarding assessment and clean up of pollution from the plant witch has contaminated the soil and groundwater beneath the facility with dangerous carcinogenic chemicals.

The plant manufactures "plasticizers," substances that make plastics flexible. The company has long used a series of unlined ponds to treat it's waste water, which contains benzene, touline, and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, better known as BEHP.

MDE officials say the chemicals have leached into soil and groundwater around the facility. Responsible people are concerned that the chemicals could be leaving the site. The plant is situated by a small unnamed stream that drains into the Chesapeake Bay.

Though a settlement requiring cleanup of the long standing pollution was reached a year ago between Genovique and the state, all cleanup efforts are on hold due to disputes with the plant's owner.

Marian Hwang, a lawyer for the Illinois-based corporation, sent a letter to the state earlier this month claiming that her client is being required to do more testing than is needed because the levels of toxic pollution monitored in the ground water have declined and there is no evidence any has seeped beyond the fence line. 

Yes I'm sure discovering the full extent of the contamination would be undesirable and expensive for the company, but I'm still not sympathetic. The fact is that these are some of the most dangerous chemicals on earth, and an uncooperative attitude towards keeping them out of the environment, and contact with humans and animals is a disgrace.

Benzene exposure is linked with debilitating and potentially fatal diseases like acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, to name a few. Touline is known to damage organs and the nervous system. BEHP exposure has been shown to disrupt reproduction and sexual development in lab animals.

Genovique did submit a cleanup plan, but it was deemed unacceptable by authorities.

Dawn Stolzfus, MDE spokeswoman:

"We've reviewed the cleanup plan, and we don't agree with it, we're not going to accept a substandard plan, we're taking our time to make sure the cleanup is done right."

MDE maintains that the pollution at the Chestertown site poses no immediate threat to neighboring residents, though not everyone agrees. Environmental activists are annoyed at the state's continuing inability to deal with a site that has been the source of pollution complaints for decades.

 

 

 

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Aplastic Anemia is a rare and debilitating hematological (blood) disorder that can be caused by exposure to benzene, a known carcinogen. Though life threatening, if detected early, the disease can be managed and even cured. The following article from aplasticamemiasite.com is a useful resource for those seeking a comprehensive overview of aplastic anemia treatment options.

Aplastic Anemia being a rare disease has led to many deaths mostly due to lack of early diagnosis. However, if the symptoms of the disease are discovered early enough, it is possible to either control or cure the disease completely. Just like any other disease, the severity of the condition determines the type of treatment to be undertaken. Cases of Aplastic Anemia could be severe, mild or moderate. Severe Aplastic Anemia requires that the patient be hospitalized for specialized treatment because it is life-threatening. In the initial stages of treatment, the patient may have to undergo blood transfusion as he or she awaits treatment. Different methods of treating Aplastic Anemia are available although the most commonly known standard methods are blood transfusion, bone marrow transplant and immunosuppressive therapy. These treatments can either be used with an aim of managing the disease for a considerable time or to completely cure the disease.

continue reading...

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In the United States our way of life is made possible by petroleum products such as gasoline and oil. Indeed we would not be where we are today without oil, but what is the cost to the health of our nation? Considering that most of us are regularly exposed to gasoline vapors, should we accept the addition of benzene, a class A known human carcinogen, to our gasoline?

Gasoline and oil products and the industries that surround them pose a significant threat to the health of consumers, workers, and communities:

• The international center for technology assessment estimates that medical costs associated with gasoline and diesel related cancers, birth defects, respiratory illnesses are well above $500 billion a year.
• An Denver USA study shows that children living near heavy traffic and/or gas stations are six times more likely to have cancer, and eight times more likely to have leukemia. (Benzene is unquestionably linked to several leukemias like acute myeloid leukemia, and acute lymphocytic leukemia.)
• Britain's Birmingham University calls gasoline and vehicle emissions "the primary culprits" directly responsible for their conclusion that UK children living near major traffic hubs face 12 times more risk of cancer related death.
• German scientists found that blood benzene concentrations in children living near heavy traffic or filling stations are 70% higher than in other children.

The above facts are indeed disturbing and perhaps a slap in the face to anyone who hasn't yet noticed that human health is often unable to trump profit in the current economy.

Take for example the tobacco industry, makers of the only product that, when used as directed, causes death. Like the petrochemical industry they too are allowed to add benzene, and whatever other chemicals they want, to their products without any regulation.

But why must we be poisoned on a regular basis? Why don't we just take the known carcinogens out of the gas and call it good? 

Let's face it, it's no coincidence that of the seven EPA designated class A known human carcinogens, benzene and 1,3 butadiene (the ones in gas and cigarettes), are by far the least restricted. Restricting these commodity chemicals, or replacing them with alternatives (yes they exist) would cut deeply into the profits of some of the most economically powerful groups in the world.

It is true that blending ethanol with gasoline can result in a significantly less toxic fuel, in some parts of the U.S. these fuels are already available, but many doubt that ethanol blended fuels will ever sweep the globe because ethanol production is agriculture based and thus elaborate and costly.

While it is currently impossible to completely eliminate petrochemical exposure in our population, we must hold oil companies accountable for their actions and insure that the fuels that humans regularly handle are as free of carcinogens as possible. The facts above show that the current situation is completely unacceptable.

 

 

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John McDevitt of Philadelphia's KYW radio said the following regarding the incident this week at St. Josephs:

One person was being treated and dozens of others were evacuated after a hazardous chemical spilled inside a lab at St. Joseph's University's science center.

The mishap occurred around 12:30pm.

Fire officials say the substance -- benzene -- can be toxic when inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

A decontamination corridor was set up near the spill site to help anyone exposed to the chemical rinse it off.

OK, not much info here. There's just one thing I'd like to point out: use of the word "can" is a bit misleading since benzene is well understood to be extremely toxic to humans not just sometimes, but all the time.

Short term exposure to benzene can lead to symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness disorientation, vomiting, loss of consciousness, and in major exposures, death.

Long term exposure to small amounts, and short term exposure to large amounts of benzene can lead to serious health complications down the line. Benzene has well established links to hematological (blood) disorders and leukemias. Myelodysplastic syndromes, aplastic anemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and acute myloid leukemia are just a few of the debilitating diseases that can be caused by exposure to this chemical.

If you or a loved one have been wrongfully exposed to benzene, you should seek the free advice of a qualified benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers are well versed in the issues and precedents associated with wrongful benzene exposure, and are skilled at going up against even the most powerful corporations in order to help victims receive the compensation they deserve.

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U.S. Steel has just released the details of their plans to clean up an underground benzene plume that has been seeping into Lake Michigan from the company's Gary Steel Works. Benzene levels in the groundwater were up to 600 times the federal drinking water limit.

Though the exact source and of the benzene is difficult to pinpoint, many speculate that it came from an abandoned "tank farm" at a demolished coke plant formerly located on the seven mile long property.

U.S. Steel says it is already installing 11 specially designed 65 foot deep wells that will pump groundwater to the surface where a vacuum and catalytic oxidizer will allegedly burn 99 percent of the pollutant.

Benzene is a virulently cancerous organic compound. Industry's wide use of benzene, from the undustrial revolution to present day, has left a legacy of pollution, suffering, and death that has affected the lives of countless innocent bystanders. Benzene is associated with debilitating blood disorders like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myeloid leukemia, and non-Hogkin's lymphoma, among others.

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Yesterday's press release from the Environmental Protection Agency is a promising indicator that the EPA getting work done in ways unheard of during the long years of the Bush/Cheney era:

WASHINGTON – EPA has released the latest version of a state-of-the-science tool that estimates health risks from breathing air toxics in the United States. The National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA), based on 2002 air emissions data, helps federal, state, local and tribal governments identify areas and specific pollutants for further evaluation to better understand risks they may pose.

Air toxics are of concern because they are known to or are suspected of causing cancer and other serious health problems, including birth defects. The report assessed 180 air toxics plus diesel particulate matter from stationary sources of all sizes and from mobile sources such as cars, trucks, buses and construction equipment. 



The 2002 NATA estimates that most people in the United States have an average cancer risk of 36 in 1 million if exposed to 2002 emissions levels over the course of their lifetime. In addition, 2 million people—less than one percent of the total U.S. population—have an increased cancer risk of greater than 100 in 1 million. Benzene was the largest contributor to the increased cancer risks.
[emphasis mine] NATA provides broad estimates of risk over geographic areas of the country and not definitive risks to specific individuals. The results are best used to prioritize pollutants and areas for further study, not as the sole basis for regulation or risk reduction activities. 

Since the 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments, air toxic emissions have decreased by 40 percent from all sources. NATA can be used to help all levels of government target further reductions in air toxics emissions.



This assessment further demonstrates the fact that when we pollute the environment, especially the air, we are also polluting our selves. The future challenge will be keeping our productivity up while eliminating the airborne emission of known carcinogens like benzene. 

More information on NATA: www.epa.gov/nata2002

Information on air toxics: www.epa.gov/oar/toxicair/newtoxics.html

 

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On Tuesday Stephen Colbert, the Comedy Central "news commentator" railed against a lake city man who filed a lawsuit saying that the city of Seattle must conduct an environmental review prior to it's Fourth of July fire works show at the city's Gas Works Park.

Gas Works...ummm... Park? The area is a partially remediated toxic waste site.

At the Heart of the lawsuit are concerns that the thousands of people present at the show could kick loose or otherwise compromise the protective layer of clean soil capping the heavily benzene laden soil below, exposing the public to the the known carcinogen.

A lawsuit attempting to prohibit fire works on the Fourth of July is of course fair game for Colbert's writers, but the lawsuit guy has a point, even if he is a party pooper. Benzene exposure can lead to a number of blood disorders like aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, as well as several types of leukemia including acute myeloid leukemia, and acute lymphocytic leukemia.

While the lawsuit may be great fodder for the late night TV crowd, it has some valid points. Soil and groundwater that are heavily contaminated with benzene tend to release fumes above ground into the air. Abandoned gas plants tend to be some of the most benzene contaminated sites on earth, and should be avoided.  

Colbert, of course, tends to disagree:

"I say an abandoned gas plant is the perfect place to shoot off fireworks. The pyrotechnics could last for weeks. Plus, thanks to the underground plumes of carcinogenic benzene, you don't have to bring pot."

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog wishes you a happy Fourth of July!

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Are you in the habit of squeezing a few extra drops into your tank after the pump has automatically shut off? If so don't try it in Oregon! The state has outlawed topping off in an effort to reduce airborne levels of benzene, a known carcinogen.

Uri Papish, air quality program operations manager for the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) said this about the new law:

“We know that in a lot of counties the benzene levels are far above public health benchmarks, monitoring at one location in Lane County in 2008, for example, showed an average annual benzene reading more than 13 times above the Environmental Protection Agency’s health recommendation.

How will this actually reduce airborne benzene levels? Papish has answers:

Prohibiting gas station attendants from topping off gas tanks — adding just a little more gas after the pump has automatically shut off — keeps them from spilling gas, which releases benzene and other pollutants.

Though the move is being hailed by many as a piece of difficult to enforce regulatory overkill, many americans are still unfamiliar with the dangers of benzene exposure. I would argue that any small reglatory measure taken to reduce airbourne benzene, even if only partially successful, is a good idea. Especially in this case where a simple action can make a big difference in airborne benzene levels, and thus improve public health. But how big of a difference can this really make? 

Lisa Arkin of the Oregon Toxics Alliance is optomistic:

"The DEQ estimates indicate that the changes will reduce benzene emissions by 28 tons annually and other volatile organic compounds by 1,610 tons per year."

Cheap to implement, results look nice on paper, this seems like an elegantly simple way decrease the public's exposure to benzene.

Arkin:

“For us, the best result is cleaning up our air, but the second-­best thing is it reduces greenhouse gas emissions. … It’s not about intruding into people’s personal car space. It’s that this (benzene) is going into the total airshed of our community.”

Benzene is a carcinogenic volitile organic hydrocarbon well known to wreak havoc on the human immune system. Studies continue to show that prolonged exposure, even to small amounts of benzene, disrupts the production of blood cells in humans. This can lead to a long list of bone marrow failure disorders and several types of leukemia including, aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, non-Hogkins lymphoma, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, and others. 

 

 

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Following a fire and explosion that claimed the lives of two employees, and injured three more, OSHA has cited Delek Refining Ltd, in Tyler Texas, with  30 safety violations.

"OHSA's Process Safety Management standard contains specific requirements that are essential to the safety and health of workers in the petroleum refining industry, and it is crucial that employers follow these safety and health requirements. If Delek had followed OHSA's standards, it is possible this tragic accident could have been avoided."--Stephen Boyd, OHSA's Area Director in Dallas.

The explosion was caused by the ignition of flammable vapors after a naphtha discharge line ruptured in the saturated gas unit at the refinery.

OSHA found one willful safety violation due to failure to "maintain and repair" processing equipment. (Willful violations are violations committed with "intentional disregard of" or "indifference to" the standards set by the Occupational Safety and Health Act.)

The other serious citations were due to violations of OSHA Process Safety Management rules. The more interesting citations involved asbestos, benzene, electrical, and fire extinguisher standards. (Serious violations are reserved for scenarios where death or serious injury could result from a hazard that should have already been addressed by the employer.)

Penalties are expected to total 217,350. A number with fewer figures than I'd like to see, considering the loss of life involved.

 

 

 

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The widow and children of a deceased Texas man have filed a lawsuit against Chevron alleging that the man died wrongfully as a result of benzene exposure.

"As a result of such exposure, Luther Wesley Miller, developed multiple myeloma from which he died a painful and terrible death on Feb. 7, 2008," the lawsuit  filed June 19 in Jefferson County District Court states.

The suit alleges that Chevron knew that benzene exposure leads to deadly blood conditions and cancers (which of course they did), yet still allowed employees to work around the chemicals.

The suit also claims that Chevron failed to warn workers of the dangers associated with benzene exposure, and failed to take precautions to avoid exposing Miller to the chemical.

Thousands of workers, in the process of simply doing their jobs, have been needlessly sickened, and have died as a result of benzene exposure. The list of debilitating and potentially deadly blood disorders associated with benzene exposure is not short and includes not only multiple myeloma, but also aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and others. 

Almost anyone employed in the industrial sector is at increased risk of benzene exposure. Don't assume that your employer is fully disclosing, or taking adequate measures to protect you from the dangers of the chemicals you regularly come into contact with on the job.

Today, in the age of information, workers have an unprecedented opportunity to learn the facts about the chemicals they are expected to use, and how to protect themselves from exposure to those chemicals while performing their jobs.

If you have been wrongfully sickened by benzene exposure, contact a benzene lawyer immediately. Many states have statutes of limitations (time limits) which may exclude you from obtaining compensation.

With the assistance of benzene lawyers, many workers who have been wrongfully exposed to benzene have persevered over even the largest corporations. Most benzene lawyers will take no payment unless your case is successful. 

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I recently received this comment from a Texas woman with first hand experience dealing with the pollution often left behind by oil and gas drilling...

I live in South Texas on a 38,000 acre ranch that ExxonMobil has leased since the 30's. A lot of kids around here have leukemia. I got the old soil conservation aerial photos and found out that ExxonMobil had huge pits where they burned sludge. I dug up a few pits and found that they are full of PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Those are linked benzene molecules and worse than regular benzene because they NEVER break down.

I made an album of the pits on our ranch. They are 100's of feet wide. You can view them on my picasa photo page. View the pits...

I really hope people will locate the pits near them and move. We are suing ExxonMobil but it is pretty hopeless because they have so much money for lawyers. It's best to just know about the pits and not move near them. ExxonMobil had a block of 2 million acres, almost contiguous, in South Texas. These pits are not just on our ranch.

Sound advice. Thousands of Americans face increased health risks due to unsafe handling and disposal hydraulic fracking chemicals. While the industry is fond of pointing out that the chemicals are injected far below the water table, and therefore pose no threat to humans and the environment, they usually omit the part about recovering a significant portion of the fluid and often storing it in open pits. Sadly the above story not an isolated incident, but an frightening reality faced by many people living near gas drilling. Thanks Elizabeth.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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New York Senator Charles E. Schumer has written a letter to the owner of the Tonawana Coke Corperation strongly urging the company to take swift action to reduce harmful benzene emissions. 

Schumer noted that the plant had reduced emissions of certain toxins, but said that "much more needs to be done to reduce the amount of benzene released into the air."

An EPA and DEC funded study found last year that airborne benzene levels in and around the town of Tonawanda are up to 75 times higher than New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) recommended guidelines.

Schumer:

“Studies have proven that exposure to these sky-high benzene levels are harmful and that the emissions from this plant are simply too high. A more concerted effort must be made to prevent these toxic chemicals from making their way into our air. I urge the Tonawanda Coke Corporation to map out a plan to reduce these harmful emmissions and present it to the public -- to ensure the health and safety of residents and workers.”

Schumer went on to underline the urgency of the threat that benzene emissions pose to the health of the people of Tonawanda...

"Due to the fact that benzene is a known carcinogen, every effort must be made to greatly reduce the amount that is being released by Tonawanda Coke. Residents of the Town of Tonawanda and the surrounding area are experiencing numerous health problems resulting from these toxic emissions. Serious diseases such as fibromyalgia and many types of cancer are occurring at irregularly high rates among Tonawanda residents. This in addition to less serious ailments such as constant headaches, and increased asthma and allergy rates, are proof enough that something is happening to the town’s residents. It is no coincidence that those suffering from serious health problems live in close proximity to the Tonawanda Coke plant.

Indeed exposure to benzene causes cancer and bone marrow failure (BMF) diseases like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia and others.

The Tone of Schumer's letter was grave but respectful of Tonawanda Coke's contributions the economy of Tonawanda and New York State. Tonawanda Coke Corporation, great company if you can see past them breaking environmental laws and poisoning innocent people with massive amounts of airborne benzene.

 

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What is benzene?

Benzene is a commodity chemical widely used by the industrial sector in the production of an extensive list of everyday items.

While very useful, benzene is also a well understood carcinogen that destroys the body's ability to create blood cells, severely damaging the immune system. Benzene exposure leads to a number debilitating and deadly diseases such as: aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute meyeloid leukemia.

Complete avoidance of exposure to benzene is nearly impossible at present due to it's use in many products such as fuel, glues, cigarettes and paints. That being said, one should take the advice of The World Health Organization to heart and avoid benzene "whenever possible."

How could you be exposed?

• Outdoor air can contain benzene from vehicle exhaust, fumes from the gas station, industrial emissions, industrial waste sites, and cigarette smoke. 
• Indoor air often contains higher benzene levels than outdoor air because it can become trapped and build up in poorly ventilated buildings. This airborne benzene comes from glues, paints, furniture wax, and detergents.
• Leaks from underground gas tanks at petroleum stations and seepage from hazardous waste sites can contaminate wells and groundwater.
• The greatest risk is posed to people working in industries that make or use benzene.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) point out that, "The seriousness of poisoning caused by benzene depends on the amount, route, and length of time of exposure, as well as the age and preexisting medical condition of the exposed person."

Benzene exposure is sickening people around the world. Many studies are underway seeking safer alternatives. If you or a loved one have been sickened by benzene, contact a benzene lawyer. A good benzene lawyer can make sure you are monetarily compensated for your illness, and won't expect payment unless your case is successful.

 

 

 

 

 

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Tseng I-Ching, a 16-year-old high school student from Taiwan, has just taken top honors at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) for her discovery of a bacterium that decomposes polystyrene or Styrofoam.

Though Styrofoam no longer contains the ozone destroying CFC's we used to hear about, it is still a threat to humans and the environment because it virtually never breaks down, and requires dangerous chemicals for it's manufacture. It does deteriorate into small granules, but those float on air and water and tamper with the food chain.

The production of polystyrene requires benzene, a known carcinogen that causes bone marrow failure diseases such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myeloid leukemia. 

While biodegradable alternatives to classic polystyrene are becoming more available, the U.S. tosses out some 25 billion non-biodegradable Styrofoam cups annually.

If we must use carcinogenic chemicals in the production of eating and drinking containers, (which for the record seems like a bad idea to me), it would be nice if that toxic material could break down instead of building up for future generations to deal with. Hopefully Tseng I-Ching's discovery can help us facilitate this.

Benzene is a highly useful chemical that industry has depended on throughout the industrial revolution. Indeed it seemed pretty cool at first, but now significant evidence suggests that there is no safe exposure level for this carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbon. The frequent use of benzene in industrial applications is sickening people world wide. Many of those sickened are innocent bystanders who live in proximity to industrial areas. Industrial workers also face the threat of benzene related disease.

Many people who have been wrongfully exposed to benzene have been able to receive monetary compensation for their illness through working with a reputable benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers specialize in going up against even the most powerful corporations, and holding them accountable for their actions.

If you or a loved one have been sickened by benzene, discuss your situation benzene lawyer, they don't get paid unless your case is successful.

 

 

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If you have kids or grand kids you've probably noticed the springy recycled tire rubber surfaces found under many newer playgrounds. The material is also used on sports fields in modern artificial turf. The popular surfaces, made from shredded tires, reduce injury, require little maintenance, and are weatherproof.  So what's the problem? Tires contain known carcinogenic aromatic hydrocarbons like benzene, as well as lead, and other heavy metals..



The EPA is conducting air and surface samples at  four fields and playgrounds that feature recycled tires. According to AP the study was implemented in light of other EPA research suggesting health risks from exposure to the tire particles.

"From everything I've been able to see, I'm not sure there's an imminent hazard, but it's something we're investigating, it's critical to take a look at all the data together."

- Michael Firestone, EPA's head of children's health protection. 

Much of the concern is due to tiny particles of "turf dust" that could be kicked up and inhaled during play.

Dr. Philip Landrigan, professor and chairman of community and preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York is calling for a moratorium on the surface until more studies are done.

 "All those toxins are very available to kids, if kids are playing and running, all this chemical soup is going to get on their skins and their fingers."- Dr. Landrigan

This issue is a perfect example of the classic disconnect regarding dangerous toxins in our society. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 25% of illness worldwide is due to human exposure to toxins. With that in mind it seems ridiculous that we would purposefully place large quantities of a material made from known carcinogens on our children's playgrounds and athletic fields.

Of particular concern to parents should be the lead and benzene present in "crumb rubber." Lead is well known to cause neurological damage in children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocates eliminating all non-essential uses of lead.

Benzene is linked with bone marrow failure diseases like aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myeloid leukemia.

The EPA points out that chemicals in recycled tires vary by location and manufacturer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Hydraulic fracturing or "fracking," a controversial natural gas drilling practice that involves the use of large quantities of a toxic fluid mixture to facilitate gas extraction, has enjoyed exemption from environmental laws for too long. On Tuesday Democratic representitives Dianna DeGette, Maurice Hinchey, and Jarred Polis introduced legislation aiming to reverse Bush era measures that had exempted fracking from regulation under the Safe Drinking Water Act and other environmental laws in 2005. In the Senate, Democrat Bob Casey introduced similar legislation.

"Families, communities, and local governments are upset that the safety of their water has been compromised by a special interest exemption, and we join them in that frustration," Rep Polis Dem/Co.

The above exemption stemmed from a controversial 2004 EPA study which stated that hydraulic fracturing posed "no threat to drinking water." Although the report took considerable fire from independent researchers, and government whistleblowers, it was a major factor in influencing congress to exempt hydraulic fracturing from the Safe Drinking Water act.

The new legislation would also repeal the natural gas drilling industry's Bush era exemption from the Federal Emergency Planning and Community Right To Know acts. Currently the exact compositions of these fluids are largely unknown to the public, though benzene and many other known carcinogens are known to be present in the fracking mixture. Environmental experts believe that up to 90% of the chemicals used are toxic to humans

The Hydraulic Fracturing process, invented by Haliburton, is especially useful in squeezing a bit more gas from older wells, and extracting natural gas from shale formations. Fracking involves injecting huge volumes of water laced with benzene and hundreds of other toxic chemicals, deep into the earth. Although the chemicals are injected well below the water table, as much as 60% of the fluid is later recovered and sometimes stored above ground in open pits. In recent years many groundwater contamination incidents have occurred damaging groundwater, and human health, while raising serious questions regarding the validity of the 2004 EPA study.

Fracking critics, myself included, widely speculate that then VP Dick Cheney, a former Haliburton exec, was behind the 2005 exemptions.

"It's time to fix an unfortunate chapter in the Bush administration's energy policy and close the 'Halliburton loophole' that has enabled energy companies to pump enormous amounts of toxins, such as benzene and toluene, into the ground that then jeopardize the quality of our drinking water," Rep. Hinchey Dem/NY

 

 

 

 

 

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The EPA has announced this week that British Petroleum (BP) has been emitting the known carcinogen benzene at it's Whiting (IND) refinery's waste water treatment plant without adequate air pollution control devices for almost six years.

In the wake of this revelation, nineteen congress members from all of the Great Lakes states have joined forces to call for a "systematic look" at BP Whiting's compliance with it's water, air and land pollution permits.

U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk, R-Ill., had this to say in a statement that accompanied a letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson:

"This latest development further underscores the fact that BP cannot be trusted to meet federal clean air and water requirements, It is my hope that the EPA takes swift action to review all of BP's pollution permits to ensure there are no other violations that have gone unnoticed. 

Rep. Kirk has a point, BP can't be trusted. The company already faces several other pollution related lawsuits including a Texas City suit around major violations of Texas environmental laws. The suit alleges that improper maintenance of equipment at BP's Texas City refinery caused an explosion that killed 15 workers, sickened 170 residents, and released massive quantities of benzene and other carcinogens.  Let's put it this way, they're not going to win this one.

Rep. Kirk went on to say:

"No one argues against the need to expand production capability at the Whiting facility, but there should be zero tolerance for releasing deadly poisons into our air and water.''

Kirk is referring to a controversial plan to expand the Whiting facility. I like the zero tolerance part, but to say that no one argues against the expansion plan is completely disingenuous. A brief search of the web will turn up countless arguments against the expansion, such as the following from Henry Henderson, a blogger who lives in the shadow of the plant:

"The obvious question repeats itself: if current operations of the refinery result in serious violations of laws that protect human health and safety, and damage the environment, why should the company be allowed to expand refinery operations to accept even dirtier crude than it currently treats, and increase the pollution from the facility?"'

The fact that benzene causes cancer has been well documented, but studies over the last few years suggest that even current allowable benzene exposure levels set by the EPA and OSHA may negatively impact health. I think it's only a matter of time before the EPA will be forced by overwhelming scientific evidence to admit there is no safe long term exposure level for benzene. 

Although benzene is a commodity chemical with many useful applications, I think society is in the process of discovering that it's even more dangerous than we thought. Too dangerous to be allowed at any level in our air water or soil.

Because benzene is heavily relied upon by the industrial sector, researching safer substitutes must be a part of the solution.

 

 

 

 

 

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After two years of litigation, a Texas benzene lawsuit has come to an abrupt end. 58th District Judge Bob Wortham dismissed the plaintiff's claims for lack of evidence.

The plaintiff, Bobby Hall of Arizona, had filed a lawsuit against Arco, Exxon, Shell and 16 other petrochemical companies.

The suit stated that Hall had been exposed to "dangerous levels of toxic and carcinogenic chemicals, including benzene-containing products." The suit also alleged that Hall's leukemia was caused by his on the job "exposures to these toxic and carcinogenic chemicals [benzene, and dioxin (a benzene derivative)], distributed, marketed, and/or manufactured by defendants." 

Unfortunately, Hall and his attorney had a falling out seven months ago, leaving hall with no legal representation at the hearing. 

According to the South East Texas Record, an on-line periodical that covers Texas legal issues, "Hall was unable to produce any evidence at the hearing linking his cancer to dioxin, a derivate of the chemical benzene."

Judge Wortham told hall:

"The fact that you don't have an attorney puts you at an extreme disadvantage, my hands are tied. The defendants have no idea what your allegations are. You've had seven months to hire a new lawyer."'

Wortham specifically suggested Hall hire a lawyer who had "working knowledge of the science involved," and submit a motion for a new trial. 

Hall's case had all the components for a successful benzene lawsuit except one, a knowledgeable benzene lawyer. Benzene lawyers have "working knowledge of the science involved," as well as the expertise and experience needed to go up against defendants who are often powerful corporations with seemingly unlimited legal resources. Most benzene lawyers don't get paid unless you win.

The fact is that benzene is a known carcinogen proven to cause bone marrow failure (BMF) diseases such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia to name a few. If you have a BMF disease, and have been exposed to benzene, you may be able to obtain compensation for your injuries, so contact a benzene lawyer today. 

 

 

 

 

 

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A recent Study by Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) found that the new car smell is an unhealthy "toxic cocktail," that could lead to long term health problems.

Dr. Steve Brown, head of CSIRO's Air Quality Control research says in a CSIRO press release:

"Just as air inside our homes and workplaces is often much more polluted than the air outside, so sitting in a new car can expose you to levels of toxic emissions many times beyond goals established by Australia's National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC)".

The new car smell, highly sought after by some, and dreaded by the chemically sensitive, can be attributed to VOC's (volatile organic compounds.)  

A press release from CSIRO listed the following air toxics found in "high levels" in new cars:

• Benzene - a known human carcinogen linked to bone marrow failure diseases such as: aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia,  
• Acetone - a mucosal irritant
• Cyclohexanone - a possible human carcinogen
• Ethylbenzene - a systemic toxic agent
• MIBK - a systemic toxic agent
• n-Hexane - a neurotoxic agent
• Styrene - a probable human carcinogen
• Toluene - a central nervous system dysfunction agent
• Xylene isomers - a fetal development toxic agent 

Brown continues:

"To avoid some exposure to this toxic cocktail, people who buy new cars should make sure there is plenty of outside air entering the vehicle while they drive, for at least six months after the vehicle has been purchased, although this may not be possible in heavy traffic due to air toxics from car exhausts. Ultimately, what we need are cars with interior materials that produce low emissions".

This study points out that new car interior VOC levels are significantly reduced after the first six months, and that some manufacturers are already taking measures to reduce toxic materials used in car interiors.

 

 

 

 

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Scientists in Houston Texas will be looking into emissions from flares at refineries and chemical plants to asses how they contribute to smog. 

The study is funded by the Texas Environmental Research Consortium, a nonprofit group founded in 2002 with a goal of studying ozone, a key ingredient in smog.

Note: Ozone is helpful in the upper atmosphere in protecting the planet from harmful UV rays. The industrial generation of this invisible gas here on the planet's surface contributes to lung damage in humans and animals.

It is estimated that 1,600 tons of smog-forming nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, including benzene, are released into Houston's skies daily.

According to a University of North Carolina study formaldehyde from the flares mixes with other pollution increasing Houston's ozone levels by up to 30 parts per billion. Texas's current plan for smog reduction does not take emissions from the flares into account.

“If there is a problem with flares, it upends the entire regulatory strategy,” - Harvey Jeffries, atmospheric chemist 

So far researchers have been finding high levels of benzene in the plume emissions. Benzene is an organic solvent known to cause a wide array of blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes, aplastic anemia, and acute myelogenous leukemia.

 

 

 

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When a local oil refinery changed hands in 1970, residents of a small Ohio neighborhood learned that an oil pipeline had been leaking under their homes for 50 years. 

"In the 70s, you could go in any of theses houses and it smelled like you poured kerosene or gasoline on everything in the house. When we dug down about five feet, that product [oil] would be there," Larry Brown, a resident, told Ohio's 10TV News. 

In the same year residents noticed a layer of oil floating on nearby Ramp Creek.

From 1975-81 the EPA began a clean up of near 400,000 gallons of petroleum, but that was a drop in the bucket in this heavily contaminated area. The underground oil slick spans 350 acres and flows directly under 40 homes 

In 1989 the city of Heath informed the EPA that oil was seeping into their sewer system. 

In 1990 the EPA took Ashland, the current owner of the refinery, to court. The result was a mandate for Ashland to clean up the area.

This year the Ohio Dept. of Health asked the EPA to conduct a study looking for benzene in the area. Underground concentrations of the carcinogenic petrochemical can cause vapors to be released above ground, and to seep into people's homes through basements, and plumbing.

Benzene is known to cause an array of blood diseases and cancers such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplatic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The benzene study began this week and tests of 12 sites have not detected any "immediate health threats."

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog would like to point out that because benzene is an additive in petroleum products, and the area sits atop a massive oil slick, it is unlikely that no risk of exposure exists in the area. 

Studies strongly suggest that even minimal exposure to the chemical, over time, is detrimental to health. 

Locals complain of high cancer rates in the area.

"I have two daughters - the oldest one is 49 - she has leukemia, she is in remission. My youngest daughter is 47. She had cancer of the stomach." Ralph McCoy told 10TV News.

McCoy himself has survived cancer, and lost his wife to cancer.

According to 10TV News, Dept. of Health Records show five complaints regarding cancer near the refinery since 2007.

As mentioned earlier, benzene causes some very specific diseases such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplatic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, to name a few. If you or a loved one suffer from any of the above, you should asses the possibility that you have been exposed to benzene, and contact a benzene attorney. 

 

 

 

 

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The Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) Foundation recently held its 10th annual symposium in Patras, Greece. The event, the worlds top conference on MDS research, "brought together more than 1100 of the leading scientists in the field from around the globe to discuss advances in the understanding and treatment of MDS," according to BUSINESS WIRE. 

Myelodysplastic Syndromes are a group of potentially deadly blood disorders that affect the body's ability to generate blood cells. Studies have linked the diseases to benzene exposure.

The conference highlighted recent exciting advancements in MDS treatments. To read a summary of these improvements click here. 

The Myelodysplastic Syndromes Foundation describes itself as "a multi disciplinary, international organization devoted to the prevention, treatment, and study of the myelodysplastic syndromes."

The MDS Foundation is "based upon the premise that international cooperation will accelerate the process leading to the control and cure of these diseases." 

Click here to check out MDS Foundation's highly informative website.

 

 

 

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Smoking and second hand smoke exposure are common causes of benzene exposure. Benzene is naturally created as a result of combustion, and is added in it's pure form as one of the hundreds of chemicals used by tobacco companies to enhance the already addictive qualities of their product.

An interesting new study by The National Institute for Occupational Safety (OSH), on casino workers in three Nevada casinos, found high levels of tobacco-specific carcinogenic toxins to be present in workers urine. OSH is a division of the Centers for Disease Control.

The study, requested by concerned casino workers, involved 124 employees of Bally's, Paris, and Caesars Palace casinos in Las Vegas, and reported the following findings:

• “We found ETS (environmental tobacco smoke) components in the air. These components include nicotine, 4-vinyl pyridine, respirable dust, solanesol, benzene, toluene, p-dichloromethane, naphthalene, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde.”

• “We found increased urinary levels of one ETS component during the work shift. This finding shows that these components were absorbed in [non-poker] casino dealers’ bodies.”

“Dealers who worked in areas where smoking was permitted made up our study sample,” the study specified. “Casino employees in administrative and engineering jobs who worked in areas where smoking was not permitted made up the comparison group.”

The findings by The National Institute for Occupational Safety call for a ban on smoking in the gambling industry, and calls for casinos to:

• Offer smoking cessation classes for employees.
• Make sure that ventilation systems are working properly.
• Form health and safety committees with employees and managers.
• Urge casino employees to quit smoking, and get involved in casino health and safety issues. 

The director of the national lobby group, Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights said this about the study:

“If anything, these results should convince Nevada lawmakers to strengthen their state law to include the gaming floors of casinos, not roll it back to expose more workers to toxic secondhand smoke.”

Benzene Leukemia Law Blog wholeheartedly agrees, workers have a right to perform their jobs without being exposed to life threatening chemicals that could decrease their life spans.  

 

 

 

 

 

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The Louisiana Environmental Action Network (LEAN) has filed a lawsuit  against ExxonMobil accusing the oil giant of trampling state environmental laws at it's Scenic Highway chemical plant, in Baton Rouge, by releasing 89,700 pounds more airborne pollution than it's permits allow since May 13, 2008.

The suit brings up multiple documented chemical leaks, and failure to maintain pollution control devices, claiming these factors illustrate a clear pattern of noncompliance with state laws, and constitute a threat to public health.

According to the lawsuit, since may 2008, the company has released pollution in excess of permitted levels, 66 times.

The suit alleges that many of the chemicals released by ExxonMobil were not even covered by permits, for example, 3,800 pounds of propylene, ethylene, and flammable vapors.

Most alarming is the defendant's report of an airborne benzene leak of "at least" 525 pounds. The leak allegedly lasted for 22 days.

Benzene is a carcinogenic organic solvent known to disrupt blood cell production in humans at exposure levels less than 1ppm. Exposure to benzene has been linked to alpastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, as well as several types of leukemia including acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), and acute myelogenous leukemia (AML).

The LEAN vs. ExxonMobil suit seeks:

• an injunction to stop the release of un-permitted pollution
• civil penalties payed to the state
• a declaration that ExxonMobil is in violation of the Louisiana Environmental Quality Act
• plaintiff attorney and expert witness fees

Marylee Orr, executive director of LEAN said this of the continuing violations:

 “It’s affecting our public health. It’s affecting the way our children learn, it’s affecting everyone in the community, it’s a confirmation that there’s a problem.”


 

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The World Health Organization estimates that up to 1/4 of all disease stems from environmental toxins. If this is truly the case, it means that toxic chemicals released by humans into the environment are sickening millions of people around the globe. At the greatest risk of health degrading chemical exposure are those living in developing countries where environmental laws are often weak or non-existent. In the U.S. while we have better laws around pollution and toxic chemical disposal than many developing nations, it is still important to take action on a personal level to protect yourself and your family from environmental toxins.

Of particular concern is the chemical Benzene. This aromatic hydrocarbon is present in many forms of pollution. Benzene is a commodity chemical that industry still depends on. The chemical has been in continuous use since the early 1800's when it was first manufactured by distilling coal. By the end of that century benzene was highly valued and widely used as an industrial solvent, but people were beginning to suspect benzene was associated with blood disorders. Today many epidemiologic studies have confirmed that even low levels of benzene exposure are associated with aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

In 1928 the first study came out suggesting that benzene increased the risk of leukemia. Since then it has been firmly established that benzene causes acute myelogenous leukemia, and acute lymphocytic leukemia, among others. 

In 1948 the American Petroleum Institute published a toxicological review of benzene stating that benzene caused leukemia, and that there was no safe exposure level.

The more than a hundred years of evidence linking benzene to sickness and death has lead to reductions in it's use, and stricter regulation by OSHA and NIOSH limiting work place exposure. Unfortunately both agencies still allow some airborne benzene to be present in work environments. 

If you have spent years working in almost any industrial environment you are at increased risk of benzene related illness, and should educate yourself as to the benzene exposure possibilities specific to your occupation. Workers sickened by benzene can often gain monetary compensation for their injuries, and should seek the free advice of a qualified benzene attorney without delay.

 

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Until recently, drilling for natural gas trapped in shale formations was not favored by drilling companies due to higher extraction costs. New technologies and a new push for oil independence have natural gas drilling companies clambering for a share in drilling the Appalachian basin's Marcellus Shale formation.

The largest of the U.S. shale gas reserves, Marcellus extends through New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Though it is estimated to contain up to 500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, and could theoretically cover U.S. natural gas needs for up to ten years, fear of the toxic chemicals used in the drilling process is fueling widespread public outcry.

At issue is the hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" fluid used in the creation of natural gas wells. The process involves injecting huge volumes of water laced with benzene and hundreds of other toxic chemicals, deep into the earth. Although the chemicals are injected well below the water table, as much as 60% of the fluid is later recovered and sometimes stored above ground in open pits. There is growing evidence that hydraulic fracturing poses a great threat to groundwater quality and public health.

Benzene, an organic solvent linked to several rare and debilitating blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia, is just one of the hundreds of chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing fluid. The exact compositions of these fluids are largely unknown to the public because Congress has all but completely exempted oil and gas exploration companies from the Federal Emergency Planning and Community Right To Know acts. Environmental experts believe that up to 90% of the chemicals used are toxic to humans.

Oil and Gas Drilling companies are also exempt from the following environmental laws:

• Safe Drinking Water Act
• Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (sets standard for hazardous waste handling procedures)

There are countless testimonies from those living near natural gas drilling sites that allege everything form contaminated wells and ground water, to methane seeps causing foul odors, and even exploding wells. If even a fraction of these accounts are partially true, the drilling poses a significant threat to human health, and the environment.  

All this for 10 years worth of natural gas? Pollution on this scale is not easily remedied, future generations will surely scoff at the idea of severely impacting a heavily populated 575 square mile area to obtain a 10 year supply of gas. The "more petroleum at any cost" philosophy may keep our economy going for now, but it will be the key to our eventual undoing.

Until we can shift into an economy based on the sustainable exploitation of our planets resources, we will increasingly poison ourselves and our environment. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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What is Benzene?

Benzene is a commodity chemical widely used in the industrial sector in the production of many products we use every day, such as:

• fuels
• plastics
• resins
• rubbers
• synthetic fibers
• lubricants
• detergents
• dyes
• pesticides
• drugs

This highly carcinogenic organic solvent has been shown disrupt blood cell production in humans, leading to a number of hematological (blood) diseases such as:

• aplastic anemia
• myelodysplastic syndromes
• non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) 
• acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
• acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL)

Those who work in the industrial sector are at risk of harm from exposure to this chemical, and should be aware of the benzene exposure possibilities posed by their specific job. Thousands of workers have been needlessly sickened and killed due to exposure that could have been avoided by taking the correct precautions.

While some employers are responsible in this area, a clear pattern of neglect regarding the dangers of benzene exposure is exemplified in countless successful lawsuits which have resulted in monetary compensation for the exposed worker, or their families.

If you work in almost any industrial setting, your risk is elevated. Do not count on your employer to protect you, rather, take personal responsibility for your health by using every possible means of protection when working with or around products containing benzene.

A recent Benzene Leukemia Law Blog post, "On The Job Benzene Exposure: Know What To Do," is a useful starting point for workers seeking to educate themselves about benzene exposure.  

 

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 A recent study by a team of investigators from the National Cancer Institute, the University of California, Berkeley, and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, has linked very low levels of benzene exposure with a decrease in white blood cell production.

The study "Hematotoxicity in Workers Exposed to Low Levels of Benzene," compared the blood cell production of 250 benzene exposed Chinese workers, to that of 140 non-exposed workers, and found reduced white blood cell production in the exposed workers.

Alarmingly, the workers were exposed to airborne benzene levels of less than 1 part per million (ppm), which is below OSHA's allowable long term exposure limit of 1 ppm during an 8 hour work day. OSHA allows a short term (15 minute) work place benzene exposure level of 5 ppm.

The study conducted multiple work place air samples, measuring benzene levels, over the course of one year.

It is well established that higher levels of benzene exposure causes lower blood cell counts, and leads  to blood system diseases like aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes, and leukemias such as acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) and acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL).

This study enforces the idea that, when it comes to benzene, there is no safe exposure level.

This idea is not new, but has taken a long time to sink in. A National Petroleum Institute toxicological report dating back to 1948 states that there is likely no safe exposure level to benzene, and that benzene causes leukemias.

If you or a loved one have been sickened by exposure to benzene at work, you should contact a reputable benzene attorney, it costs nothing to discuss your case, and you may be able to receive compensation for your injuries.

 

 

 

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The European Commission has stated that it agrees with the European Parliment's vote to approve legislation to cut health harming vapor emissions from gas stations.

"This directive will improve the protection of European citizens' health by contributing to the attainment of agreed EU air quality standards for two harmful pollutants -- ground level ozone and benzene." -European Comission

The new policy will require most european gas stations to implement stage II petroleum vapor recovery systems by 2018 at the latest.

The stage II recovery nozzles involve a vacuum which collects fuel vapors that hover over whatever liquid gas is left in a car's tank. Traditional gas pumps cause that vapor to be displaced into the athsmosphere as the tank is filled.

Petrolium vapors are a major contributer to smog, and exposure to cancer causing chemicals like benzene. These technologies can reduce escaping petroleum vapors by 95% and could lead to the prevention of dangerous benzene-linked diseases such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplatic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

The technology is being gradually implemented across the U.S.

 

 

 

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In 2003 A Bexar County Texas state district court ordered the city of San Antonio to pay out $23 million in the case of a young girl diagnosed with leukemia as a result of benzene exposure. A later appeals court ruling favored the family but reduced the payment to $7.64 million. Now The Texas Supreme Court has completely overturned the verdict, leaving the girl, and her family with nothing.

Sarah Pollock was diagnosed with leukemia at age three. Her family's property bordered the notorious West Avenue landfill, which was found to be seeping methane and benzene into their home.

Sarah's doctors all agreed that her case of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) was caused by in-utero benzene exposure. Lawyers for the family were able to produce a long paper trail pointing out that the city had been aware of seepage problems with the landfill for years. The Pollocks were never informed by the city of any dangers regarding the landfill, and were not even aware of the problem until they prepared to sell their home.

Justice Nathan Hecht found that the two main witnesses in the case did not have scientific evidence on which to base their conclusions. 

It's hard to understand where justice Hecht is comming from here, reading over the ruling, it's quite clear that Sarah Pollock was exposed to benzene in-utero, and that the benzene came from the landfill. Though ALL is the most common chilhood leukemia, it is extremely rare. Benzene is a known cause of this disease. This ruling is a mockery of justice. As two lesser courts have ruled, the Pollocks deserve compensation for their ordeal.

 

 

 

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Deliberate dumping by Chevron, of billions of gallons of toxic waste, decimated six indigenous groups, and caused at least 1,400 deaths from cancer, a representative of the amazon communities testified before congress this week.  

"The environmental degradation of this area, done intentionally by Texaco [now Chevron] to lower production costs, has today produced a humanitarian crisis of epic proportions,"  -Steven Donziger, lawyer for the affected Amazonian communities, before the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission

A 15 year civil trial in Ecuador charges that Chevron, purposefully discharged billions of gallons of "formation water" into the rainforest, and abandoned 900 toxic waste pits in the jungle. The pits continue to leak toxins into the soil, contaminating the drinking water supply of the local population.  Formation water, a byproduct of oil drilling, contains hydrocarbons, including benzene.

 "Texaco pumped the oil out of the ground, separated the crude and sold it on the commercial market, and then dumped billions of gallons of toxic waste into the Amazon. In this area of Ecuador the water, soil, and air on which thousands of people depend for almost every aspect of their daily sustenance is for the most part poisoned."-Donziger

The cancer death statistics are widely considered low as most in this remote area die without ever seeing a doctor.

Donziger also testified that there were three other human rights violations related to the Chevron case.

• The victimization, death threats, and assaults faced by those named in the lawsuit.
• The "abuse of the judicial process" by Chevron in order to "obstruct and delay" the trial, and negatively impact the abilities of the plaintiffs to resolve claims.
• The "environmental racism" practiced by Chevron in that it purposefully desicrated the environment of indigenous peoples, while simultaniously operating safely in the U.S.

Weather or not Chevron is racist, I doubt they would think twice about doing the same thing in the U.S. or anywhere else. The reason they did this is that they thought they could get away with it.

Chevron has informed U.S. government officials it expects "significant adverse judjement" regarding the dumping, later this year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has withdrawn it's controversial report  that downplayed the risks of chemicals found in the water supply of Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base in North Carolina. The report is being pulled due to factual omissions and scientific inaccuracy.

The report acknowledged the presence of chemical contamination in Lejeune's water supply. Chlorinated hydrocarbons, as well as the chemicals tetrachloroethyline (PCE), a dry-cleaning solvent, and trichlorehylene (TCE), a degreaser, were present in water used for housing, schools and swimming pools on the base.

The report blatantly downplayed the risks that the known carcinogens posed to the 150,000 people living on and around the base saying that adults faced "no increased cancer risk," and that children were "unlikely" to contract cancers as a result of exposure to the water. At the same time, another section of the report stated that cancer risks were "unknown."

According to the Associated Press, ATSDR is pulling the report because:
 

• it omitted that high levels of the cancer-causing chemical benzene were found in a base well. Also, researchers never tried to verify whether benzene had reached the drinking water;
• contaminating solvents that officials focused on have been characterized by new science as even more likely to cause cancer;
• the study underestimated the extent of the contamination on the base housing areas due to inadequate information from the Marines.

The omission of the benzene discovery and subsequent failure to follow up on that discovery, is a chilling indication of top level disregard for the health of enlisted men and women, and their families, at Camp Lejeune. Benzene has long been classified as a  human carcinogen and has been linked to aplastic anemia, myelodysplatic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Lawsuits seeking $33 billion in damages have been filed against the U.S. government by veterans who allege they were sickened by the water. Veterans groups have long disputed the findings of the discredited report.

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Known to locals as "the pits" the 295 acres at the end of Ballard lane in Corpus Christi Texas is a toxic nightmare.

State tests show that the area is heavily contaminated with a toxic blend of benzene and chromium. 

Once a sand and gravel pit, the site was used in the 1960's as a dumping ground for oil field drilling mud and refinery waste.  Today it is considered and environmental hazard by the state and several environmental agencies.

County and state officials are concerned that the site poses a threat to the area's drinking water wells. Compounding these worries is the fact that the site sits on the Nueces River flood plain, meaning that flooding could cause the contamination to spread considerably.

The 2020-11 Texas state budget approved by the House and Senate bound, may include up to $72.4 million for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to use for hazardous material clean up.  Of that money, $9 to $11million could be spent on the Ballard pits.

"The cost will depend on the waste and the proportion of hazardous to non-hazardous. It's kind of a moving target because we don't know what we are going to find." -Andrea Morrow, Texas environmental agency spokeswoman

 

 

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A four day old baby born to the Al-Mahdari family of Yemen has died from exposure to paint fumes according to an autopsy report. Three other babies mysteriously died at the hospital the same week.

According to the family, the hospital, Saber private hospital in Mansoura, had just painted the reception area, and the corridors leading from the incubators to the maternity ward. The family suggests that the baby died from inhaling paint fumes while passing back and forth through the corridors. 

“They painted the hospital in the presence of patients and new born children. The components used in painting are dangerous and cause asphyxiation. This resulted in three children’s deaths, and my newborn child was the fourth,” Toufiq Al-Mahdhari, the baby's father.

Indeed most paints contain known carcinogens including benzene, and are most dangerous when wet or fresh. A recent Benzene Leukemia Law Blog post regarding a new study linking paint fumes to childhood leukemia can be seen here.

It is well known that children are more susceptible to inhaled toxins because they breathe more air in proportion to their weight than adults.

 

 

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In the largest settlement in the 14 year history of the EPA's audit policy, chemical and textile giant Invista will spend $500 million to bring 12 plants into compliance with environmental laws. The EPA's audit policy includes incentives to companies that voluntarily disclose and correct environmental violations.

All of the plants in question were recently purchased by Invista from Dupont.  Soon after purchasing the plants Invista disclosed 680 violations at 12 plants in 7 states. In March 2008 Invista filed an $800 million lawsuit against Dupont citing the companies failure to allow a thorough review of the plants before sale. The suit is pending.

According to the EPA the spending will result in:

• $325 million in estimated annual human health benefits.
• 30 fewer premature deaths.
• 9,000 fewer cases of upper and lower respiratory symptoms.

The above results will be achieved through installation of  pollution control equipment to treat air pollutants and remove benzene from waste water.

The settlement includes a 1.7 million civil penalty.

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Yesterday thirty-eight workers and villagers were poisoned and hospitalized after inhaling benzene gas at a village in east China's Zhejiang Province.

The poisoning took place as workers dismantled tanks that had contained the chemical.

Short term exposure to benzene causes immediate depression of the central nervous system. Symptoms include drowsiness, headache, dizziness, loss coordination, loss of conciousness, and if levels are high enough, immediate death.

Long term exposure to the chemical has been shown to cause a variety of rare blood disorders and cancers including:

• aplastic anemia
• myelodysplastic syndromes
• acute myelogenous leukemia
• non-Hodgkins lymphoma

If you are suffering from one of the above conditions, and have been employed in an industrial setting, you could benefit from discussing your situation with a qualified benzene attorney. You may be able to receive compensation for your injury.

 

 

 

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Scientists at the University of Alaska (UAS) have discovered significant levels of benzene and other organic solvents in snowpacks around Valdez Alaska. The town is located at the end of the trans-Alaska pipeline and is where tankers are loaded with crude oil.

The researchers took snow cores from around Valdez and compared them to samples from Juneau, an area with a similar climate but lacking petroleum transport infrastructure.

"Our research suggests a source of pollutants in Valdez that is not found at Juneau one possibility is the trans-Alaska pipeline."- UAS scientist Jonathan Bower to environmentalresearchweb.

The source of the benzene contamination has not been determined but researchers suggested the Ballast Water Treatment Facility may be to blame. The facility treats ballast water from the holds of tankers, and vents fumes directly into the atmosphere. UAS scientist Jonathan Bower suggested measures should be taken to recover the fumes in order to reduce pollution.

It is fortunate for those living in Valdez that this health risk has been identified. Hopefully locals will push for a solution that involves eliminating the source of the pollution and cleaning up the mess as much as possible.

Unfortunately those living and working in and around the oil and gas industry are at increased risk of benzene exposure. Prolonged exposure to benzene is known to cause serious health problems such as aplastic anemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes. Anyone who's health has been wrongfully damaged by benzene has a right to seek compensation for their injuries and should speak discuss their situation with a qualified benzene attorney. 

 

 

 

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A mysterious odor near S. 9th St. and W. National Ave in Milwaukee has caused some residents to vacate their homes. The smell, which residents describe as similar to gasoline, paint thinner, and furniture stripper, comes and goes in all weather without any notable pattern.

As a result of the complaints of concerned residents, the Milwaukee Health Department conducted air monitoring in the area and discovered "gasoline or diesel related compounds" were present.

Among the compounds was benzene, a known human carcinogen commonly used in the petrochemical industry. Short term exposure to the organic solvent can cause nausia, diziness, and disorientation. Long term exposure to benzene has been linked to blood disorders and cancers, specificly, aplastic anemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

The source of the pollution continues to evade officals.

"We're trying to understand the pathways of how vapors make it to the homes, and we're still at the very early phases, but we are detecting it [petrochemicals including benzene] consistently in these properties when we do monitoring with a dosimeter." 

"What makes this more difficult may be that it's old contamination that settled in old utility vault where utility pipe and conduit used to be. There could be empty pockets underground that collect vapors that make their way to homes through old sewer lines or cracks in the foundations. There's a million ways it can get into homes, especially in old areas like S. 9th and National," -Paul A. Biedrzycki, Milwaukee Health Department

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Opponents of the proposed 12 lane Interstate 5 bridge linking Portland OR. and Vancouver WA., recently rallied in downtown Portland, citing health concerns regarding the project.

The massive bridge is the Columbia River Crossing project's response to a fast growing Northwest population.

Activists present at the rally found fault with 2008 Federal Highway and Transit Administration draft environmental impact statement which found that while increasing traffic drastically, the massive project would somehow lead to pollution reduction of 30 to 90 percent.

A recent Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report paints a starkly contrasting picture, and expresses concern over how the above figures were drafted. According to EPA documents, the $4.2 billion project would likely lead to increased toxic chemical emissions in an area of Portland already notorious for pollution.

The north and northeast sections of Portland are associated with higher air pollution levels due to freeway proximity and industrial emissions. Recent studies have demonstrated that those living near or on a freeway face increased risk of  benzene exposure. Exposure to the chemical has been linked to serious conditions like aplastic anemia, acute myelogenous leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Benzene is just one of many dangerous chemicals found in vehicle emissions.

Sylvia Evans, an environmental justice advocate from north Portland, expressed concern about the project.
 

"It will render that neighborhood uninhabitable, I don't think my health or my neighbors' is worth sacrificing for someone else's privilege to live, work, and play in two different states."

 

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The Environmental Protection Agency, (EPA) has announced that New York State will receive over $10 million in federal stimulus money.  The money has been allotted for the cleanup of petroleum spills, and the reduction of diesel emissions.

The state has an estimated 2,443 underground gas storage storage tanks believed to be leaking  petroleum into the ground water.   According to the state Department of Environmental Conservation 2,037 petroleum related spills, (including above ground incidents,) were reported last year in Nassau and Suffolk counties alone.

Most of the money, $9.23 million will be for assessment and cleanup of the leaking tanks.

This will indeed be money well spent. Leaking underground petroleum tanks release dangerous carcinogens such as benzene, methyl tertiary butyl ether, (MTBE), into ground water, which supplies drinking water.  This puts unknowing water consumers at risk of serious health problems.

"Clean Diesel" Would Benefit Many

An additional $1.73 million will go to "clean diesel" projects.  According to the EPA such projects will create jobs, reduce premature deaths from exposure to chemicals, reduce asthma attacks and other pollution related health problems. 

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In Texas City, Texas, 143 residents have filed a lawsuit against BP (British Petroleum) in response to a 2007 incident in which the refinery released toxic chemicals into the air, negatively affecting workers, and those living near by. 

Apparently there were two releases, one involving a powdery cloud that caused residents skin and eye  irritation, and one that put 110 workers in the hospital for treatment and decontamination.

The chemical releases contained benzene, aluminum silica, and many more harmful chemicals.

The suit alleges that BP failed to properly maintain the refinery, monitor refinery operations, identify safety hazards, discover a dangerous condition, and warn plaintiffs of that condition.

In the wake of the releases plaintiffs complained of being unable to live comfortably in their homes, and deteriorating health.

Benzene, a well known carcinogen, causes a host of debilitating diseases including aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia, to name a few. 

Unfortunately chemical releases such as this are far from unheard of.  Those who are employed by, or live in close proximity, to oil refineries face in increased risk of benzene exposure. If you feel your health has been affected by exposure to benzene, contact a benzene attorney without delay.  

 

 

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Researchers at the University of California have found an association between household paint use and childhood leukemia. According to the study children exposed to paint at home had a 65% greater risk of acute lympho-blastic leukemia (ALL). The risk increased with frequency of paint exposure.

The study also suggested that mothers who used paint during preconception or pregnancy were three times more likely than those who used no paint to have a child with ALL. Researchers said this could signify that paint causes problems in early fetal development and suggested that, "avoiding the use of paint in the house during pregnancy and early childhood would be a prudent measure."

Many other cancers have already been linked to paint which contains benzene and a host of other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Exposure to benzene is known to cause several rare blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastice syndromes, and is linked with acute myelogenous leukemia.

Painting raises household VOC levels significantly for several days after application. Though levels typically go down again soon after the paint is dry, off gassing will continue slowly for years.

Those who use paint regularly on the job should take all possible measures to protect thmselves from the vapors.

A growing number of US and European companies are now offering natural paint products with low or zero VOCs, in an ever increasing array of modern colors.

I have used some of them and found them every bit as good as conventional indoor paints.

Here are some suggestions for safer indoor painting:

• Use a low or no VOC variety of paint.
• Plan painting for a warm dry spell and leave windows open for 3 days.
• Never use exterior paint indoors
• Take fresh air breaks.
• Watch for symptoms of chemical exposure such as dizziness, and headaches and move to fresh air.

 

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In the United States our way of life is made possible by petroleum products such as gasoline and oil. Indeed we would not be where we are today without oil, but what is the cost to the health of our nation? Gasoline and oil products and the industries that surround them pose a significant threat to the health of consumers, workers, and communities.

Those working in or around the petrochemical industry have long suffered health problems that are now being linked to benzene exposure. Widely used in the industry, benzene is an organic solvent known to cause a wide array of serious health problems such as myelodysplastic syndromes and aplastic anemia. Benzene also causes acute myelogenous leukemia.

Gas stations are where most of us experience benzene exposure. The vapors one smells while pumping gas contain all the same chemicals as gas in its liquid form, including benzene.   

It is not unheard of for underground gasoline storage tanks to rupture, contaminating groundwater with their toxic contents. Because many older tanks are made of uncoated steel, they are destined for eventual failure due to rust. Because the tanks are underground there is no way to monitor their integrity. Many successful lawsuits have been filed on behalf of people whose groundwater has been contaminated by leaking gas tanks.

The chemical hazards posed by gas stations are not only subterranean, above ground, gas stations are prone to fuel spills and gasoline in its vapor form. The frequent small spills can mix with rainwater and drain into nearby creeks and waterways. The vapors carry benzene and other toxic chemicals into the bodies of consumers. A recent study estimates that for every 1000 gallons of fuel pumped, one gallon is released into the atmosphere.

If the station also works on cars, than the risks to health are increased. Mechanics routinely use solvents containing benzene, and lead products, and may work on breaks and clutches that contain asbestos, a substance that causes mesothelioma.

The auto refinishing and painting industry uses a host of harmful chemicals, including benzene which is found in most paint.

Vehicle exhaust is something we are all exposed to on a daily basis and few of us loose much sleep over it. That said, it contains benzene and studies have indicated an increased cancer risk among those who live on or near major highways, or are employed in toll booths, or parking garages.

Above all petrochemical plants pose the greatest risk to surrounding communities.  Countless successful lawsuits have been filed on behalf of individuals and communities negatively affected by chemical spills, leaks, and emissions. 

Recently the media has been full of talk about reducing dependence on foreign oil, how about reducing dependence on all oil? We don't have to wait for the affordable electric car to get started. A growing number of Americans are working to eliminate or limit petroleum use in their lives. The following are some ways you can reduce oil dependence and thus improve our health as a nation.  

• Moving closer to work, telecommuting, car pooling, and bicycling are all ways we can reduce our need for oil.  
• Shopping locally and buying locally produced food products whenever possible decreases oil use by reducing the need for shipping.  
• Purchasing organic products whenever possible reduces the use of petrochemical fertilizers and herbicides.
• Installing solar assisted hot water heaters reduces the use of natural gas, and your gas bill.

While it is currently impossible to completely eliminate petrochemical exposure in our population, we must hold oil companies accountable for their actions to ensure that the highest possible safety standards, and lowest possible occurrence of environmental accidents, are met.

 

 

 

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The House of Representatives has just passed legislation 298-112 giving the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) power to regulate tobacco companies. The bill has yet to go before the senate.

The legislation would grant the FDA powers to restrict harmful chemicals added to tobacco products, and allow it reject new tobacco products.

The list of chemicals routinely added to tobacco products is to long post here, but here are just a few:

• Benzene -- linked to acute myelogenous leukemia, and blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes.
• Fungicides and pesticides --linked to cancers and birth defects.
• Cadmium -- linked to lung and prostate cancer.
• Formaldehyde -- linked to lung cancer.

The tobacco industry is the only one allowed to deliberately poison people.

Though the bill is supported by the while house and is being hailed as a major victory for those who have been working regulate big tobacco, a question comes to mind.

Why is big tobacco allowed to deliberately poison people?

Even if the FDA did force them to remove some chemicals, the product, when used as directed, would still cause consumers to die.

 

 

 

 

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A Texas woman has just filed a benzene lawsuit against DuPont De Nemours on behalf of her late husband.

Levings alleges that her husband died as a result of benzene exposure while working for the company.  Her Husband worked at DuPont's Sabine River Works facility in Orange County Texas, and died of non-Hodgkins lymphoma (NHL) in 2008.  

Benzene is a highly carcinogenic organic solvent widely used in the industrial sector.  The chemical is linked to multiple debilitating and deadly diseases in addition to NHL. 

Linda Levings stands a great chance of receiving compensation for her loss.  In recent years many have successfully obtained benzene settlements as a pattern of corporate disregard for workers health and the environment continues to emerge.

Benzene settlements can be quite considerable, below are just a few  2008 verdicts:

• $11.2 million was awarded to New York City after Exxon Mobil intentionally contaminated the City's waterways with benzene.
• $6.6 million was awarded to the family of a 68-year old man who died from benzene exposure after working at Mobil.
• $4.3 million was awarded to the families of four petrochemical workers who were all diagnosed with leukemia following workplace benzene exposure.

The size of a benzene settlement depends on  the degree of negligence on behalf of the defendant, and the severity of the benzene exposure and resulting medical conditions.

Employers have an obligation to provide a safe working environment.  Workers should be provided with proper education about toxic materials they may be exposed to, and maximum protection from those materials.  If you have been sickened by on the job exposure to benzene you may be eligible for monetary compensation.  Contact a medical lawyer without delay,  it costs nothing to discuss your circumstances with most qualified benzene attorneys.

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It's not clear exactly how long benzene contaminated groundwater has been seeping into Lake Michigan from U.S Steel's Gary Works.  The benzene is said to leaking from old tanks at coke plant that was demolished years ago.  The highly polluted area had been surrounded by a break wall to contain groundwater contamination.  It is thought that a 2001 crack in that wall allowed the movement of contaminated groundwater into the lake.  The problem was discovered by U.S. Steel last Summer.

"we don't know exactly when the plume reached the lake."- EPA project manager       Tamara Ohl.

Benzene levels in the groundwater were up to 600 times the federal drinking water limit.

The point where the benzene enters the lake is a mile from the nearest drinking water intake.  The intake is owned by Indiana American Waters.  The company is required by federal law to test for benzene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).  So Far no benzene has been detected in the finished drinking water.

Exactly how much benzene was leaked into Lake Michigan is not yet known.

What Is Benzene?

Benzene is a clear sweet smelling organic solvent widely used by industry.  Ingesting benzene can cause vomiting, stomach irritation, disorientation, and death.  Exposure to benzene has been shown to cause a number of debilitating blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), and Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).

The Cleanup Plan

U.S Steel plans to install a $1.4 million treatment system which includes 11 wells that will remove benzene from ground water before pumping it back into the ground.  They do not plan to repair the break wall.

It is not yet known weather U.S Steel will face fines or penalties for the contamination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a new air toxics monitoring initiative that will Analise the air outside 62 schools in 22 states.   The schools are all in areas which according to government data, are determined to be toxic hot spots. 

The $2.25 million program will involve the EPA as well as state and local air pollution control agencies.  Here are the simplified goals of the plan according to the EPA's website:

• collect samples of outdoor air near selected schools over 60 days,
• analyze those samples for air toxics of potential concern,
• report on levels of air toxics found and their potential for long-term health impacts,
• evaluate actions that may be needed to reduce levels of pollutants of concern, and
• take action as needed to ensure that nearby industries are in compliance with clean air regulations.

The EPA acknowledges that this program comes in the wake of a recent USA Today study which used government data to show that air outside 435 schools was more toxic than than air outside Meredeth Hitchens Elementary.  Hitchens Elementary was an Ohio school closed in 2005 after the Ohio EPA discovered air born carcinogen concentrations 50 times higher than acceptable state levels.

Speaking to USA Today EPA administrate Linda Jackson said:

"Your stories raised important questions that merit investigation and that's what we're doing, we want parent to know that the places there children live, play, and learn, are safe."

The EPA project will focus on "air toxics",  hazardous air pollutants suspected to cause cancer and serious health effects.  Under the Clean Air Act the EPA regulates emissions of 187 air toxics.   The monitoring will measure two forms of pollution: gases, such as benzene, and pollutants in particle form such as hexavalent chromium, manganese, or lead.

It's great to see the EPA acting on this.  It is well known that children are even more susceptible to toxic chemicals than adults because they breathe more air in proportion to their weight than adults. Clean air should be a given for children in their learning environment.  

 

 

 

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Today marks a deadline for California gas station owners to have complied with new pump vapor emissions standards.  The new standards set by the State Air Resources Board require installation of new nozzles, and in some cases computer systems designed to prevent spills.

The standards are designed to prevent gasoline vapors from escaping into the atmosphere.

Gasoline vapors consist largely of hydrocarbons which react with other pollutants to form ozone, a major ingredient in smog.  According to the Air Resources Board the new equipment will "eliminate the daily release of up to 10 tons of smog forming compounds from spills and fugitive emissions."

Gasoline vapors also contain benzene, a volatile organic compound (VOC) and dangerous carcinogen.  Exposure to Benzene is known cause rare blood disorders such as myelodysplastic syndromes, aplastic anemia, non-hodgkins lymphoma, and acute myelogenous leukemia.  

 "[The new nozzles] will reduce consumer exposures to benzene, a known carcinogen".-Air resources Board

If you live in California you may have noticed that vapor reducing nozzles have been  widely used for some time, but the new nozzles represent a significant improvement in vapor reduction.  The new systems include vacuum pumps which actually suck gas vapors back into the tank.

The price of retrofit starts at $20,000 and goes up depending on pump numbers.  Station owners are expected to shoulder the cost.

According to the Associated Press lawmakers are considering emergency legislation to “ease the financial pain of a retrofit.”  

 

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Many soldiers who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan are suffering from severe health problems that are being linked to the military’s practice of burning waste materials in open pits.  A freshly leaked military document strongly suggests that the Pentagon knowingly exposed US troops at Balad Airbase, in Iraq, to cancer causing toxic chemicals, while publicly declaring the risks to be minimal.

The leaked document is signed by the chief of the Air Force’s aeromedical services.  The report outlines the risks posed to troops from the burn pits of Balad, and lists the numerous carcinogens, including benzene,  arsenic, and dioxins, which are released by the pits.  Aeromedical chief Lt. Colonel James Elliott wrote:

“In my professional opinion, the known carcinogens and respiratory sensitizers released into the atmosphere by the burn pit present both an acute and a chronic health hazard to our troops and the local population,”

The document also quotes a US Army Center For Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine investigator who states that Balad’s burn pit was “the worst environmental site I have ever personally visited, [including] 10 years working clean-up for the army.”

In stark contrast to the above declarations of toxic health dangers, is a “Just the Facts” sheet regarding burn pits in general, issued to troops, by the Pentagon.  Though the sheet acknowledges that 2004-2006 lab tests found “occasional carcinogens,” it also stresses that, “the potential short and long term risks [were] estimated to be low due to the infrequent detections of these chemicals.”

The pentagon report continues:

“Based on U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidance, long term health effects are not expected to occur from breathing the smoke.”

Soldiers Face Chronic Illness

In a 2008 Army Times investigation, reporter Kelly Kennedy wrote:

“Though military officials say there are no known long-term effects from exposure to burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan, more than 100 service members have come forward to Military Times and Disabled American Veterans with strikingly similar symptoms: chronic bronchitis, asthma, sleep apnea, chronic coughs and allergy-like symptoms. Several also have cited heart problems, lymphoma and leukemia.”

This evidence of systemic top-level disregard for the health of America’s brave enlisted men and women is alarming.  The medical conditions associated with benzene alone are debilitating and even deadly.  Although the Balad pits have recently been replaced with cleaner burning incinerators, there are hundreds of similar pits across Iraq and Afghanistan.

 

 

 

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Oil and natural gas drilling companies have long maintained that the hydraulic fracturing process used in creating natural gas wells poses no threat of groundwater contamination. The federal Government has overwhelmingly agreed with this assessment, allowing the industry waivers under many federal environmental laws.

The process, commonly known as “fracking,” involves injecting huge volumes of water laced with benzene and hundreds of other toxic chemicals, deep into the earth. Although the chemicals are injected well below the water table, as much as 60% of the fluid is later recovered and often stored above ground in open pits. There is growing evidence that hydraulic fracturing poses a great threat to groundwater quality and public health.

In recent years many groundwater contamination incidents have occurred raising serious questions regarding a 2004 EPA study which stated that hydraulic fracturing poses no threat to drinking water. Although The report took major fire from independent researchers, and government whistleblowers, it still caused congress to exempt hydraulic fracturing from the Safe Drinking Water act.

Recently the Federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) documented benzene contamination in Sublette County, Wyoming ground water. Since 2000 the area has seen well over 3000 new oil and gas wells.

In San Juan County, New Mexico the New Mexico Oil Conservation Division (NMOCD) has cited over four hundred cases of ground water contamination. The area has seen almost 5000 new wells since 2000. The contamination is said to stem from oil and gas waste pits. These pits are lawful only because oil and gas companies are exempted from the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, which sets standard for hazardous waste handling procedures.

Benzene, an organic solvent linked to several rare and debilitating blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia, is just one of the hundreds of chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing fluid. The exact compositions of these fluids are largely unknown to the public because Congress has all but completely exempted oil and gas exploration companies from the Federal Emergency Planning and Community Right To Know acts. Environmental experts believe that up to 90% of the chemicals used are toxic to humans.

The federal government should impose all of its environmental laws on all industries. It’s difficult not to speculate that if oil and gas companies were not blatantly trampling these laws, they would not require so many legal loopholes and exemptions.

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I just came across this article about a heroic young New Zealand chemist named Terry Collins who was an early pioneer in establishing the dangers that benzene exposure poses to workers.  In 1971 Collins took a summer job to fund his chemistry education.  The work, loading refrigerators onto trucks, brought him into contact with a crew of workers who were using an industrial solvent to clean up excess tar used in the assembly of 1970's refrigerators.   Anyone interested in industrial benzene use and its effects on workers should check out this fascinating article.

"Collins notices that this crew's complaints go beyond the typical rumblings and that they are also eerily similar—nosebleeds, dizziness, fatigue, persistent headaches. The 19-year-old aspiring chemist is concerned. Among all his hours spent in the university teaching labs, he had been reading about the toxicity of benzene. It has dawned on him that the workers may be displaying the classic symptoms of overexposure to benzene, which can be found in industrial cleaning solvents.

He decides to dig deeper. He visits the cabinet cleaning room where the workers use the solvents, estimates the room's dimensions, notes its lack of ventilation, determines how many drums of solvent the workers go through daily. He then calls the producer, posing as a buyer, and learns how much benzene and related aromatics are in the solvent—5% aromatics of which about 1% is benzene. With all of this information, he calculates how much benzene the workers inhale at work.

Even his most conservative estimate points to what he suspected. The workers' exposure is enormous, just through inhalation (not to mention what must be passing through their hands). These workers, simply by doing their job, are being poisoned—literally, not figuratively."

  read more...

 

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 A new benzene exposure test Is generating a buzz in the shipping industry.  The test kits, from a Concateno subsidiary called Medscreen, are a simple and inexpensive way to test mariners for benzene exposure.  The kits have been shortlisted for the 2009 Seatrade Awards in the 'Safety at Sea' category.

Benzene is an organic solvent widely used in industrial and manufacturing processes all over the world.  Exposure to benzene has been linked with serious blood disorders such as aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes. Benzene has also been linked to non-hodgkins lymphoma. Exposure to high concentrations can quickly cause death.

Of course maritime workers are at risk because benzene is transported via boat to all corners of the globe.  The primary risk to these workers is leakage during transport, heavy seas and collisions are not uncommon in this line of work.

"Since we have added a low-cost, sensitive benzene test to our range of drug and alcohol services, the kits have been quickly taken up by shipping companies around the world.  Many boats keep a stock of the test on board in case- as happened in Dubai recently- an accident or collision occurs that might involve exposure to benzene."-  Graham Birch, head of sales for Medscreen maritime sector 

The tests require a small amount of urine in the vials provided.  All the packaging needed to send the samples to the lab is included in the kit.   Analysis takes several hours and results can be emailed or faxed less that two days later.

This test kit is a great idea.  I hope to see something similar being added to safety kits across the industrial sector. Many workers have suffered and died as a result of on the job benzene exposure. If you believe that your health has been compromised due to benzene exposure, you should speak with a medical attorney who specializes in benzene cases.  Victims of benzene exposure have been successful in securing monetary damages to cover their medical costs and suffering.  

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Whether you’re looking for federal regulations regarding benzene in the workplace or information on the health effects of benzene exposure, there are a number of valuable resources on the Web to help you in your search. Listed below are just a few:

The Environmental Protection Agency – A general report on benzene, potential sources of exposure and its health hazards can be found here and a fact sheet on how it affects groundwater/drinking water can be found here.
 

Occupational Health and Safety Administration – Provides information on OSHA regulations for benzene in the workplace, including how to recognize and evaluate benzene hazards
 

National Marrow Donor Program – An informational page on acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) can be accessed here.
 

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – Great resource for cancers of the blood, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and acute myelogenous leukemia, which are both sometimes caused by benzene exposure.

 

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Here's another story about benzene groundwater contamination near an unlined landfill.  The contamination was discovered using "test wells" which waste management companies use to monitor groundwater contamination levels, and the drift of that contamination.

A plume of contaminates including benzene, was discovered on the north side of an Orange County North Carolina landfill.  Test wells showed the contamination to be drifting east.

According to Gayle Wilson, Orange County Solid Waste Director, The chemicals are coming from a closed portion of the landfill on the north side of Eubanks Rd.  The unlined landfill opened in 1972 and was covered in 1996.

The benzene contamination exceeded state levels for groundwater quality, but not the maximum federal level acceptable for drinking water.  Levels for vinyl chloride exceeded all acceptable levels.

Benzene is a well known carcinogen responsible for a host of debilitating diseases including dangerous blood disorders, and leukemia.

The company has been working with the state to formulate a cleanup plan.  The plan involves installation of two "injection wells." The wells will "force a mix of water and sodium permanganate into contact with the plume to neutralizer the chemicals."-Carrboro Citizen, 3/19

 

 

 

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Garfield County Colorado commissioners will ask the state to reinstate a natural gas drilling moratorium in the east Mann creek area near Silt.  

Locals fear a dangerous repeat of a 2004 incident in which hydrocarbons and benzene seeped into a nearby creek.  In the wake of that incident,  EnCana Oil and gas was fined $371,200 and the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, COGCC,  imposed a drilling moratorium.  The moratorium was later lifted but new drilling requirements were added.

In January one of EnCana's wells saw a spike in gas pressure causing benzene contaminated water to flow from the well.  According to EnCana the leak occurred well below the drinking water aquifer, but residents are worried about contamination.  

Benzene is a cancer causing organic solvent used in many industrial applications.

“We ask that the moratorium be reinstated only until such time as a thorough and complete investigation can take place into the failure of stipulations to protect our health and safety as well as the environment,” -Lisa Bracken, area resident.

For those unfamiliar with natural gas drilling and the danger of chemical contamination of aquifers it may pose, allow me to provide a little background information.  Most natural gas wells are created through a process called hydraulic fracturing.  Pioneered by Haliburton, the process shoots large quantities of water, sand, and chemicals, including benzene, several miles underground in order to break up rock and release the natural gas.  This process was deemed safe by a 2004 EPA study which stated that hydraulic fracturing posed no threat to drinking water.  This study caused congress to exempt hydraulic fracturing from the Safe Drinking Water act.  

So the process was at least officially considered safe, until more recent years when several contamination incidents occurred sparking an important debate as to weather chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing threaten drinking water.

Looking back across the industrial century, we cringe at the chemicals and emissions that were released into the air without restriction.  The health damaging air pollution problem was not foreseen by industry, nor would things have improved were they not challenged.   Looking back at those mistakes it seems absurd to this blogger to think we can now pump chemicals into the ground with no negative effects.

 

 

 

 

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Chicago environmental activists took a stand Sunday hoping to delay a law that would allow in construction the use of soil known to be contaminated with benzene, arsenic, and lead, to name a few.   

"For many, many years the city has not taken soil contamination seriously, and it's our responsibility as communities of color that are severely impacted to call upon them and say it's too quick to make a decision," -Kim Wasserman of the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization.

Historically dirt removed from Chicago construction sites has been transported to landfills and then replaced with earth taken from nearby farmland.

Under the new proposal on site soil could be reused as long as the contaminate levels fell below city and state thresholds.

Activists say they need more time to examine the proposal.  The city council could vote on this as soon as Wednesday.

 

 

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The Environmental Protection Agency recently proposed setting emissions limits on benzene and other toxins released from gas-fired and diesel stationary engines. These engines are used to generate electricity and power industrial equipment, and over 1 million of them operated in the U.S. last year.

Emissions from diesel and gas-fired stationary engines are significant and limiting the emissions could reduce toxic air pollutants by 13,000 tons per year, according to EPA estimates.

There is a serious health risk to those working or living in areas where toxic emissions are released. For instance, exposure to benzene is linked to several rare blood disorders including acute myelogenous leukemia. To weigh in on the EPA proposal, visit the agency’s website where you can submit comments for a limited period of time.

Continue Reading...

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A group of  Champaign Illinois residents expressed outrage with a state approved cleanup plan for a former manufactured gas plant in their neighborhood.  They say AmerenIP should be required to remove contaminated groundwater from the area.

Located at fifth and hill street, the 2.4 acre site is contaminated with benzene and a wide array of other compounds.  The pollution was generated by the former plant which was operational from the late 1800's to the early 30's.  Toxic coal tar was a by-product of the plant.  The Cleanup plan states that the site continues to release "vapors with contaminants in excess of proposed state indoor standards."

A test well south of the site found benzene concentrations higher than 1000 parts per billion, (PPB), and another to the west showed levels of 640 PPB.  The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency drinking water standards allow benzene levels of 5 PPB.  These high levels mean that the groundwater could produce hazardous vapors affecting those who live or work on the site over a lifetime, according to Claudia Lennhoff who heads the Fifth and Hill Neighborhood Rights Campaign.

 "What Ameren is not telling the public is that their cleanup plan does not involve cleaning up the contaminated groundwater... and the Illinois EPA has said 'OK' to this." -Lennhoff

Ameren claims that removal of the top ten feet of soil from two thirds of the site,  and a chemical treatment of the deeper soil and groundwater, should remove the cause of contamination and thus improve groundwater over time.

Benzene is dangerous organic solvent known to cause several blood diseases such as aplastic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes.  It is also linked to several forms of leukemia.   Those living near the Fifth and Hill St. site and anyone else living near known benzene contamination should educate themselves and their families as to the signs and symptoms of benzene related illness.  Anyone who feels their health has been compromised should speak with a Benzene attorney. 

 

 

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Air monitoring by the county health department at the Sto-Rox Elementary School in Mckees Rocks, PA. has found measurable concentrations of benzene and toluene inside the school.

The monitoring was requested by the school in the wake of a USA today article which listed the air outside the school as some of the worst in the nation.  According to that article, Sto-Rox Elementary is "the 28th worst school for toxic air pollution in the nation out of 128,000 schools."

The monitoring revealed that the air inside the school contained benzene levels several times higher than outdoor samples taken at the same time.

The Allegheny County Health Department told parents not to worry, the levels of toxins found were "fairly" low, and the study was only during a four day period.

As a parent myself, I would consider the above statement a slap in the face.  The World Health Organization officially states that any exposure to benzene should be avoided whenever possible. Benzene is a highly carcinogenic organic solvent linked with several rare and debilitating blood disorders aplastic anemia and leukemia.  

Local school district officials have declined interviews with the media and refer only to a statement on their website:

"Fresh air and air circulation may help dissipate the concentrations of these chemicals.  In the short run, the district is stepping up ventilation in the elementary school immediately." 

So far no mention has been made to the public as to the source of the contamination.  

I checked out a local website and saw many posts from concerned parents saying their kids often complained  of headaches and other sickness during and after school.

The health department has not yet set a date to begin a long term health assessment .

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 A Kentucky myelodysplastic syndrome patient has filed a benzene suit against 18 corporations on the grounds that his condition was wrongfully caused.

Earl Brumleves worked as a service man, oil burner, pipe fitter, maintenance man and equipment repairman.  During these jobs Brumleves alleges he inhaled, ingested, or otherwise absorbed benzene.  The chemical is linked to rare blood disorders, including myelodysplastic syndromes, and acute myelogenous leukemia, and is known to cause cancer.91

Brumleve's debilitating condition cost him dearly.  Huge medical bills now loom over his family in addition to the pain and anguish he suffers as a result of the disease.  "myelodysplastic syndrome hindered and prevented Earl from pursuing his normal course of employment," according to the suit.

The five count lawsuit seeks compensatory damages in excess of $200,000, plus costs and other relief the court finds appropriate.

 

 

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The Marcellus Shale formation in Pennsylvania is one of America’s greatest natural gas resources. As one company scrambles to exploit this resource in Mount Pleasant Township, some residents are growing concerned about the potential for adverse health effects.

Range Resources Corp has drilled dozens of wells in the township to access water for a process known as “hydrofracking.” The process forces a chemical solution that includes benzene, methanol and over 200 others deep into the shale, and this facilitates the release of natural gas.

One research organization tested 54 chemicals in the fluid and found that:

• Nearly one-third are carcinogenic (that is, they are known to cause cancer)
• Nearly three-quarters cause respiratory problems
• Over half pose a risk to the blood and circulatory system

Indeed, benzene is known to cause a number of rare blood disorders and cancer, including aplastic anemia and acute myelogenous leukemia. And although a spokesman for Range Resources said the chemical solution is diluted and used at levels too deep for human exposure, citizens are still rightfully concerned.

The municipal supervisor for the township said he fears that the fluid will escape either above or below ground, and possibly contaminate groundwater. Another resident said she has stopped drinking from her wells and is having it tested because she’s concerned about its safety.

“I do feel the compulsion to make sure this [drilling] does not do horrible things to us,” she said.

Residents in this or other area of Pennsylvania where drilling is being undertaken may want to talk to their local representatives to learn more about measures being taken to prevent toxic contamination.


 
 
 

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BP Products North America agreed yesterday to pay more than three quarters of a million dollars for violations of  the Emergency Planning and Right-to-Know Act, EPCRA, at it's Texas City refinery, the largest in the nation.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, BP will pay the US government a $420,662 civil penalty, and spend $365,000 on supplemental environmental projects in Texas City.

At issue is the company's noncompliance with EPCRA toxic chemical reporting requirements.   

• BP Failed to complete and submit toxic chemical release information to the EPA and state of Texas from 2002-2005.
• BP Failed to maintain any reporting records in 2004.

The list of toxic chemicals subject to reporting  requirements is long and includes:

• benzene
• dioxin and dioxin like compounds
• formaldehyde
• lead compounds
• methanol 

These new fines come in the wake the February 19 announcement of a  $161 million settlement  for the company's noncompliance with a 2001 Clean Air Act regulation placing strict controls on benzene and benzene containing wastes generated during petroleum refining.

 

 

 

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 A new benzene lawsuit has been filed in Texas against 67 defendant corporations.  The suit, filed on behalf of the family of a deceased man, alleges that the man's death from acute myelogenous leukemia was caused by wrongful exposure to benzene. 

Vickie and Michael Johnson lost their husband and father Cloyce Michael Johnson to acute myelogenous leukemia, (ACL), in march of 2007.   This rare blood cancer is caused by benzene exposure.

Like many who suffer from ACL Johnson worked for large industrial corporations.  He worked from 1968 to 2007 as a pipe fitter, pipe fitter welder, boilermaker and mechanical supervisor.

The suit alleges that the defendants released benzene into the air, although they were fully aware of the dangers.

Defendants include: 

• Exxon Mobile
• Dow Chemical 
• Goodyear
• Monsanto
• BP Amaco
• Union Carbide
• Shell
• U.S. Steel 

Too many workers have paid the the price for what appears a systemic lack of concern regarding toxic emissions by US industry.  Hopefully this and other suits like it will tip the scales in favor of corporate responsibility for their workers health where on the job chemical exposure is a risk, and safer handling and storage and disposal procedures for benzene and all dangerous chemicals. 

 

 

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Prolonged or excessive benzene exposure can lead to significant health problems such as aplastic anemia, leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For this reason, it’s important that you know the limits for benzene exposure set by the relevant state and federal regulatory agencies if you work in a high risk occupation.

OSHA –The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a long-term exposure (8-hour shift) limit of 1 part per million (ppm) and a short-term (15 minutes) exposure limit of 5 ppm.

NIOSH –The CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has a long-term (10-hour) exposure limit of 0.1 ppm and a short-term exposure limit of 1 ppm.

ACGIH –The American Conference of Industrial Hygienists has a long-term (8-hour shift) exposure limit of 0.5 ppm and a short-term exposure limit of 2.5 ppm.

These limits are set for airborne exposure; however, benzene exposure may also occur through ingestion and skin contact. Symptoms of benzene exposure include dizziness, drowsiness, tremors, loss of consciousness, vomiting and rapid heartbeat, to name a few.

Any time these or other unusual symptoms are seen after exposure to benzene, it’s vital that medical attention be sought immediately.



 

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Blood transfusions can be a life saving therapy for those suffering from Aplastic Anemia and  Myleodysplastic Syndromes (MDS).  Many patients require ongoing blood transfusions, but are unaware of the associated risks. Transfused blood contains extra iron which the body cannot process on its own.  If you or a loved one have had multiple transfusions, you need to know about a serious and preventable condition called chronic iron overload.

If you have had 10 or more blood transfusions you may be at risk, even if years have passed between them.  Symptoms can include changes in skin color,  bone or joint pain, tiredness, and lack of sex drive.  Unchecked iron overload can lead to many serious health problems such as:

• Heart Damage
• Liver Damage
• Infertility
• Increased dibetes risk

If you have had multiple transfusions, it is vital that you talk with your doctor about iron overload, and undergo regular screening to monitor your serum ferririn levels.  Several treatment options are available for this common and deadly disease.

 

 

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A local Manhattan official is opposed to gas drilling in the region for fear that the process will result in contamination of the area’s drinking water. Toxic chemicals are used in the drilling process, and Borough President Scott Stringer believes those chemicals will pollute the water and cause severe health problems among area residents.

Gas drilling is increasingly common as the U.S. attempts to become more self-sufficient with regard to energy production. However, according to a report released by Stringer, there have been at least two dozen reports of serious health issues linked to gas drilling in nine different states.

“In Wyoming, the water there where the drilling took place – 1,500 times the safe level for benzene. A house in Ohio exploded because the methane found in the tap water ignited,” he said.

Benzene is particularly toxic to humans and has been shown to cause rare cancers like leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

If you are concerned about gas drilling where you live, you may want to consider contacting your local officials to find out what kind of measures are being taken to protect area residents.

 

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Benzene has been found in water wells and soil at the site of an old gas plant in Champaign, Illinois – in some instances, the levels of benzene have been as high as 200 times the amount accepted by health officials as safe.

Energy company, Ameren, now owns the toxic site and residents are asking the company to investigate the problem. The company has outlined its plans to clean up some of the contamination, but generally the plan is to clean the top 10 feet of soil.

Many of the contaminated wells, according to Ameren, are deeper than 40 feet. The company said groundwater at this level will not have an impact on the local residents. However, the head of the Champaign County Health Consumers has called for the company to learn more about the risk to those in the area.

Benzene is a carcinogen that has been linked to rare cancers such as acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Concerned residents are welcome to attend an open house being held by the company on March 11th.





 

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A man who was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) in 2006 has filed a lawsuit against 26 companies after realizing that his cancer is probably related to decades of occupational benzene exposure.

Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) is one of several rare cancers caused by benzene, and Calvin Johns suffered plenty of exposure to benzene during his years as a laborer at Sinclair Refining Company, Clark Oil, Premcor and Apex – all of which have been named as defendants in Johns’ suit.

Oil refineries, in particular, should know the risks their workers face and should take measures to reduce the risk of toxic exposures. Many successful claims have been made against large corporations, allowing victims of benzene exposure to obtain compensation for their physical, emotional and financial damages.

In this lawsuit, Johns and his wife are seeking damages for medical expenses, physical pain and mental anguish, among other things.



 

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Benzene is a cancer causing organic solvent widely used in the industrial sector. If you work in one of the following industries you need to know what to do in the event of exposure.

• Petrochemical manufacturing
• Petroleum refining
• Coke and coal chemical manufacturing
• Rubber and tire manufacturing
• Gasoline storage, shipment, and retail operations
• plastics and rubber manufacturing
• Shoe manufacturing

In the unfortunate event of on the job benzene exposure, there are actions you can take to limit health risks as much as possible. The following steps are recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Breathing Benzene

• Move away from exposed area immediately

Benzene on Clothing 

• Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Do not pull clothing over your head, but cut it off instead.
• If helping others remove clothes, wear gloves, and avoid any skin contact with contaminated articles.
• Place contaminated clothing in plastic bag.  
• Place anything used to handle clothing in plastic bag. 

Benzene on skin 

• Wash with large amounts of soap and water

Benzene in Eyes

• Rinse eyes with plain water for 10-15 minutes 
• Remove contact lenses and place with contaminated clothing, don't re-use
• Eyeglasses can be washed with soap and water and re-worn.

Benzene Ingestion

• Seek immediate medical attention
• Do no induce vomiting

Benzene related accidents can be kept to a minimum by responsible storage and handling methods. If your health has been compromised by on the job benzene exposure, you should speak to a benzene attorney without delay.

 

 

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Legislators in New York are seeking the removal of tolls at the Grand Island bridges after a study showed that benzene levels in the area are 100 times higher than what the state considers safe. Benzene is a carcinogen and it’s released by cars idling at the tolls.

The benzene emissions are a major health risk to residents in the Tonawanda area. A local legislator said she is encouraging the governor to use stimulus funds to remove the barriers.

If you have concerns about benzene exposure, either through vehicle emissions or groundwater contamination from industrial waste, it might be in your best interest to contact your local Congress person to find out what – if anything – is being done about the problem.

 

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Don't assume the FDA is keeping you safe from benzene contamination in consumer food products.  Although the FDA regulates benzene levels in bottled water, regulation of soft drink beverages is sporadic at best.  Benzene is a known carcinogen and poses a number of serious health risks.

A recent study conducted by the FDA and EPA looked at only 200 of the thousands of soft drinks available to American consumers.  That study found benzene levels higher than the US. EPA drinking water limit in close to one in ten of the beverages surveyed.

How It Got There

Most often benzene contamination in soft drinks is caused by a reaction between common benzoate preservatives, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C).  Storage is a major variable here as heat and light are known to speed up this reaction.

How You Can Protect Yourself From Benzene In Soft Drinks

In light of this study it seems that complete removal of soft drinks from your diet is the most prudent course of action.  Of course this option is not for everyone, so here are a few ways to play it safer.

• Avoid soft drinks with added vitamin C
• Limit soft drink consumption
• Store soft drinks in a cool dark place. 

Benzene exposure is linked to cancer (acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in particular), immune system suppression, reproductive damage and more.

 

 

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Shell Oil Products is planning to check for benzene contamination in the soil and groundwater near Roxana, Illinois this spring. The check seems to come a little late, considering it stems from a benzene leak that occurred more than two decades ago.

In 1986, an underground pipeline owned and operated by Shell Oil leaked 8,400 gallons of benzene into the area surrounding Wood River Refinery. There is little documentation regarding cleanup efforts, and what cleanup was done seems to have been limited to surface liquid recovery.

However, more recent groundwater sampling from monitoring wells in the vicinity of the plant has shown increased levels of benzene. Officials say there is little possibility that the benzene has contaminated water supply wells for area residents, but this seems unlikely given the extent of the contamination. Plus, exposure to benzene may also occur as a result of vapor migration.

Benzene exposure poses a number of serious health risks, and residents who have developed health problems such as anemia or cancer should consider discussing their legal options with an attorney.


 

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In a settlement with the Environmental Protection Agency, BP Products North America has agreed to implement measures that will reduce benzene emissions at its Texas City refinery. The settlement will benefit those living in and around the area, who have suffered potentially harmful benzene exposure.

Exposure to benzene causes a variety of health problems including cancer (acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma in particular), immune system suppression, and reproductive damage, among other things.

According to a press release by the EPA, BP will spend more than $161 million to control pollution generated during its petroleum refining processes. The money will go toward equipment upgrades, as well as improved monitoring and maintenance.

The EPA estimates that these actions will reduce emissions of benzene and other toxic chemicals by as much as 6,000 pounds a year.

 

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Natural gas drilling in the Barnett Shale area of Texas produces some 260 tons of air pollution emissions each day. The area is highly populated, and those living in the vicinity are likely being exposed to dangerous pollutants such as methane and carbon dioxide, as well as known carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde.

However, this need not be the case. According to a new study, the air pollution in the Barnett Shale can be controlled existing technology.

“We have come up with viable solutions. The good news is that there are a lot of viable technologies to reduce the emissions, “ said Ramon Alvarez of the Environmental Defense Fund, who conducted the study together with Al Armendariz of Southern Methodist University.

Hopefully, measures will soon be taken to implement these viable solutions to prevent further toxic exposure to those living in the Barnett Shale region of Texas.

 

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Work exposure to organic solvents like benzene and carbon tetrachloride increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in women, a new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests.

NHL is a term used to describe several malignancies of the immune system and diagnoses of NHL have continued to increase over the past several decades. The National Cancer Institute reports that more than 66,000 Americans were diagnosed with NHL in 2008 and over 19,000 died from the disease.

The question is whether on-the-job exposure is behind the increase in cases of NHL, so researchers examined the relationship between the two and found that exposure to:
 

• Organic solvents containing chlorine increased the risk of NHL by 40%
• Organic solvents containing carbon tetrachloride more than doubled the risk of NHL
• Formaldehyde increased the risk of NHL by 30%

The study findings also suggested that exposure to benzene, a known carcinogen, also raised the risk of non-Hodgkins lymphoma in women.




 

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Under a settlement agreement with the U.S. Justice Department, two oil companies have agreed to cut benzene emissions. Benzene has been identified as a cancer-causing agent and is linked in particular to two rare cancers: acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

One of the companies, Wyoming Refining Co., agreed to spend $14 million to upgrade pollution controls at its refinery in Newcastle. This includes installing equipment to remove pollutants such as nitrogen oxide and sulfur dioxide.

The other company, Frontier Refining, which operates refineries in El Dorado, Kansas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, will spend $127 million upgrading its refineries to bring them into compliance with the Clean Air Act.

Both companies must also pay civil penalties, which together will total close to $1.5 million.


 

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For more than 25 years, Woburn, Massachusetts has been the site of an intensive cleanup effort to remove pollutants such as benzene (a volatile organic compound known to cause leukemia), arsenic and ammonia. The area has long been deemed one of the most toxic in the nation.

100+ Years of Pollution

The pollution began over a century ago during the Civil War when the area became home to numerous manufacturing facilities – facilities that manufactured chemicals and glue. As the cleanup nears completion, the EPA is looking at redeveloping the 245-acre area.

At Least One Death

The agency has already approved a retail complex and Anderson Regional Transportation Center, which is named after Jimmy Anderson, a young boy who died of cancer in 1981. His mother filed a civil lawsuit over the toxic pollution.

Others who have been injured by the contamination in Woburn may also be able to file a civil lawsuit against responsible party(s).

 

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Gude Landfill in Montgomery County, Maryland, is seeping – and has been seeping for years – hazardous chemicals such as benzene, mercury and lead into area groundwater. In some cases, the contaminant levels are as much as ten times higher than what the Environmental Protection Agency allows.

Now, state environmental officials and a group of concerned citizens are seeking data from the county regarding the toxic contamination. The county has kept records on the contamination since shortly after the landfill stopped operating in 1982, but has failed to report the results to the Maryland Department of the Environment.

Residents at Risk?

A representative from the county’s Department of Environmental Protection said there is no evidence linking the pollution to health effects in the community, though some residents have suffered years of toxic exposure.

Benzene is a known cancer-causing chemical and has been linked to rare cancers such as acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The spokesperson for the local DEP said the residents’ drinking water has not been contaminated, but added that kids and pets should not play in nearby Rock Creek.


 

 

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Do you live near a freeway? A pilot study conducted by the Utah Department of Health in 2006 concluded that children living near freeways have a higher risk of developing leukemia as a result of the benzene emitted into the air from vehicle exhausts.

The study is not conclusive but does fit in with other evidence suggesting that the risk of cancer is higher for children who live near heavily trafficked areas. Rather than waiting around for more conclusive studies, clean air advocates like Dr. Brian Moench are saying action is needed.

"The medical data would strongly suggest that if we can reduce these kinds of emissions to our airshed, that we will have less incidence of cancer, especially among young children," Moench said.

If you live in a heavily trafficked urban area, you may wish to write to your local government official regarding possible regulatory actions.

 

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Benzene exposure can cause a number of serious health problems, and people may be exposed to the toxic chemical through various sources. We have seen many different types of cases involving benzene exposure and think it’s important that individuals understand how it occurs, its effects and other benzene facts.

How It Occurs
Benzene is a widely used chemical in industrial processes in the United States – Individuals who live or work in industrial areas may face a greater risk of benzene exposure than others.
Benzene is also found in hazardous waste sites and underground storage tanks near gas stations. Leaks can contaminate groundwater and cause exposure.  
Low levels of benzene exposure may occur in the outdoor air as a result of tobacco smoke and vehicle exhaust.

Health Effects
Exposure to benzene can impair red blood cell production and cause anemia.
It can damage the immune system and cause the loss of white blood cells.
The Department of Health and Human Services has identified benzene exposure as a cause of cancer, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Exposure may affect fertility in women.

The health effects a person experiences depends on the amount and duration of benzene exposure, and also whether exposure occurred through direct contact with the skin, ingestion or inhalation. Medical advice should be sought any time benzene exposure is suspected.

Individual Rights
Irresponsible corporate and industrial practices that result in benzene exposure may form the basis of legal actions, and individuals who have developed illnesses like cancer may be able to file or join a lawsuit to seek damages.





 

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An increasing number of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are developing illnesses that seem to be linked to burn pits used for disposing of hazardous materials. Approximately one-fifth of the veterans who have reported their ailments have leukemia or lymphoma.

Both leukemia and lymphoma are rare diseases sometimes caused by benzene exposure. Benzene is one of a number of toxins that tests have shown to be released from the burn pits.

Noxious Fumes Emitted

According to one of several class-action lawsuits filed on behalf of ailing service members, defense contractor Kellogg, Brown & Root LLC used the pits to burn hazardous and biohazardous materials such as:

• Tires
• Trucks
• Munitions boxes
• Hydraulic fluids
• Lithium batteries
• Plastics and petroleum products

The noxious fumes created by these burn pits would drift over the nearby bases, exposing service members stationed there.

Range of Health Issues

In addition to lymphoma and leukemia, veterans have reported health issues such as bronchitis, asthma, heart problems, sleep apnea, gastrointestinal illness and “weeping lesions.” Thirty of 150 veterans who have complained of health problems have joined a class-action seeking damages for:

• Emotional distress
• Physical injuries
• Medical treatment
• Medical monitoring
• Fear of future disease

If you have questions or concerns about benzene exposure, you may wish to contact an attorney about your rights. You may be entitled to compensation.

 

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More than $900,000 was paid to eight plaintiffs involved in an ongoing legal battle against Kerr-McGee Chemical, the plaintiffs’ benzene exposure attorneys announced this week. The lawsuit was originally filed in 2005, and the company has delayed payment to the plaintiffs since an arbitration decision last year.

Tronox LLC, which now owns Kerr-McGee, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and in January asked for relief from payment under that filing. Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued that the company had sufficient funds in at least five different accounts to pay the money owed, and Tronox was finally obliged to pay.

Plaintiffs Claimed Health Problems from Toxic Exposure
Kerr-McGee manufactured railroad ties at its Avoca, Pennsylvania plant for approximately 40 years, releasing extremely toxic chemicals – such as benzene, arsenic and creosote – into the air. The original lawsuit involved nearly 3,500 plaintiffs who claimed they developed cancer and other health problems as a result of exposure to these chemicals.

 

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Four out of 12 monitoring wells at the site of a former gas plant in Oneonta’s Neahwa Park (New York) are still showing excessive levels of benzene and several other dangerous chemicals even after millions of dollars have been spent over the last decade on clean-up efforts.

Any exposure to benzene is too much exposure, as benzene has been linked to a variety of serious and rare illnesses such as:

• Aplastic anemia
• Myelodysplastic syndrome
• Acute myelogenous leukemia
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Groundwater in the area is not used for drinking, but there is a risk to people wading in the nearby creek. Individuals in the area who have developed a benzene-related illness may wish to seek the advice of a benzene exposure attorney.




 

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South Carolina may face sanctions from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency if it doesn’t come up with the money necessary to clean up some 3,000 sites contaminated with benzene and other dangerous chemicals.  

The chemicals are leaking from underground fuel tanks and polluting nearby groundwater. Contamination caused by the leaks is not only affecting property values, but also raising health concerns among residents.

Benzene and cancers such as leukemia have long been linked, and testing has revealed that the toxic chemical has tainted wells in some of the state’s rural neighborhoods.

Officials at the Department of Health and Environmental Control have known about the contamination caused by leaks for years, but the agency has only made two requests in more than a decade for clean up money.



 

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Approximately 200 residents of Angelina County, Texas have agreed to settle a benzene lawsuit filed against Chevron in 2002. The lawsuit involved claims of property damage and health complications such as leukemia.

Old, Leaky & Unused Pipeline

At issue in the lawsuit was a leaky crude oil pipeline owned by Chevron that ran through Lufkin (in Angelina County). According to the lawsuit, Chevron stopped using the 70 year old pipeline in the 1980s and never cleaned it up.

Residents claimed they were unaware the pipeline existed until 2002, when it was unearthed during a local construction project. It was then that the residents realized the rusty oil pipeline was the likely source of contamination in the area.

Residents Suffer Benzene Exposure

In 2003, testing conducted by the city of Lufkin measured benzene levels in the groundwater to be 12,660 parts per billion (ppb) – by far exceeding the protective 5 ppb limit. Chevron testing found the level of benzene to be six times the protective limit.

Residents in the lawsuit alleged that Chevron knew that the pipeline was leaking benzene and other harmful chemicals into the air, soil and groundwater. Benzene exposure has been linked to serious illnesses such as acute myelogenous leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

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According to reports, a new law was recently passed in the state of Oregon regarding ‘topping off” while at the gas station. The new law was approved this past December and will go into effect on July 1, 2009. The state passed the new law in an attempt to reduce the amount of gasoline vapors being emitted into the air at various gas stations throughout the area.  

However, this new ‘topping off’ ban has drawn criticism from gas-station owners who claim that their customers will be prevented from filling up their cars completely. And, let’s face it, the gas-station owners might be losing a buck here and there. Though public-health advocated insist that this new rule is necessary in an attempt to lower the amount of benzene that is released into the air to harm the environment and community.  

Why the Controversy?

Gas-station owners are insisting that the government’s ‘topping off’ law is vague, and could cost them sales. But when a vehicle is ‘topped off’ with gasoline, gasoline is caused to spill and as a result benzene is sent into the air.  

Benzene is a known carcinogen that has been linked to various forms of cancer including leukemia. When benzene is ingested, inhaled or handled, it has been known to not only cause life-altering illnesses, but can even lead to death. And this is why environmentalist and the government are taking action to cut the amount of benzene released into the air wherever they can, loss of sales or not.  
Oregon’s new standards are reportedly aimed at reducing emissions of benzene by about 28 tons each year and other volatile organic compounds by an estimated 1, 610 per year.  
 


 

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Recent reports claim that U.S. Steel is planning on spending $1.4 million in an attempt to treat water tainted by benzene. The decision involves building 11 wells surrounding its Gary Works complex near Lake Michigan to contain benzene-tainted water. Researchers found that the water has been leaking into the lake for several months and potentially putting the surrounding community at risk. The water was found to be contaminated by the toxic chemical known as benzene after officials analyzed the soil and groundwater.

Although neither U.S. Steel or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials are sure about how much benzene was in the lake, the company has concluded that there are benzene levels of 1 to 3 parts per million.

The EPA Discovers Benzene

"It's not a level that's showing any immediate risk," explains the project manager of the EPA, Tamara Ohl. "But it's high enough. Clearly, we don't want a situation where benzene is going into the lake.” 

Officials say that the benzene came from an older tank farm at the coke plant, which was removed several years ago. The tainted water was reportedly caused by a large crack in a lake breakwall that surrounds the plant. However, even though health officials have found what is causing the exposure to the lake, repairing the wall would require a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit, would not fix the tainted groundwater problem, said U.S. Steel spokesman Charles Rice. 

U.S. Steel is expected to submit a treatment plan to state and federal environmental regulators by the end of this month. Plant officials said they hope to have the system operational by the summer or fall. 



 

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Recent reports from Stanford University claim that the amount of toxins in home carpets is equivalent to the toxins, like benzene, that are given off in cigarettes. Dr. Wayne Ott PhD explains that oftentimes community leaders put too much blame on industry in terms of benzene exposure when in fact the causes of many illnesses is right beneath are feet, literally.

“We have measurements, lots and lots of measurements, lots of studies, showing that most of the pollution and most of the exposure to toxic chemicals occurs in your homes, like in your carpet. And these are all things that you can change easily,” says Dr. Ott.

Studies Reveal New Source of Exposure

EPA studies of human exposure to air pollutants, like the toxic chemical benzene, show that indoor air levels of many pollutants are two to five times higher than any outdoor levels. Researchers estimate that the majority of people spend about eighty to ninety percent of their time indoors. So with all of this time spent on the floor, the research proves that toddlers can ingest anywhere from 0.02 to 10 grams of dust and soil each day. And much of this dust and soil contains harmful chemicals that exist within the carpet and are brought in by outdoor sources.

For years, outside sources and certain industries known to use benzene in their products and work days have been the primary source of blame for benzene exposure. Although benzene does cause harm to many through these sources, Dr. Ott explains that in many cases, people have to look no further than themselves and their own homes for the bad air they breathe.

Cigarette smoke, which contains benzene, has been found to be the number one source of indoor toxic air. Pollution meters can reportedly detect the harm of cigarette smoke lingering in the air for up to five hours.

 

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Reports claim that the air in Alabama’s four largest cities contains such high amounts of chemicals like benzene that it could potentially danger thousands of people. The reports stem from a recent study conducted by environmentalists within the state.

The report was put together by the Conservation Alabama Foundation and researchers discovered that the state’s major cities had excessive levels of toxic chemicals. The cities that are supposedly at high risk are Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery and Huntsville. And according to Adam Snyder, the executive director of the organization, Phenix City is also in harm’s way.

Study Reveals Citizens Are at Risk

Snyder claims that of the 15 chemicals found to be inflicting the cities, benzene was at the top of the list for being the most life threatening and apparent. Data showed that the amount of benzene in the air is “far beyond” limits that have been established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Another thirteen of the chemicals found have also reportedly been linked to cancer.

“Our goal with this report is to elevate the issue so something can be done with it,” says Snyder. “We want the state to do something to clean up the air.”

Many researchers are also concerned since the report doesn’t conclude that these five cities are the only ones in the state with air pollution problems. These cities are just the ones where monitoring has been conducted.

“There could be more out there. We just don’t have the data,” Snyder states.

Exposure to benzene has been linked with various forms of cancer, including leukemia, for which a cure has not yet been found.
 

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According to recent reports, students in Wicomico County, Maryland, are more likely to be exposed to benzene toxins when they’re outside than their fellow classmates in the Lower Shore counties.

The findings were revealed in a recent eight-month USA Today analysis of Environmental Protection Agency pollution that found several areas through the U.S. where toxic chemicals in the air were at troubling levels. Although most schools within Wicomico County had a better than the national average when tested, many of them were found to have dangerously low air quality levels.

Researchers Test for Benzene

The study was conducted by setting up monitoring devices at 95 schools within 30 states in America. Researchers from John Hopkins University and the University of Maryland analyzed several samples from these monitoring devices. This way, there were able to see how pollution levels could make people ill or even increase their risk of various cancers.

The study revealed that the air quality in Beaver Run was volatile and the EPA was able to determine that the people within this community, in particular the children attending the schools directly affected by the poor air and water quality, were extremely risky.

Beaver Run is a school with about 570 children ranging to pre-kindergarten to the second grade. And it was here that scientists found the benzene levels to be extremely risky. The experts who were in charge of the monitoring referred to the levels as being “significant” and they intend on conducting further investigations and taking action to ensure the safety of these children.


 

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A field in East Austin, Texas which was once occupied by several giant cylinders holding gasoline is now reportedly cleaned-up after much controversy and community protesting. The area was dubbed "the tank farm" by those who lived in the surrounding communities of the field and it was a cause of concern due to the amount of benzene that was being emitted from the site.

Neighbors first heard about the site in the early 1990's and activists and public officials quickly took action. There was reportedly a dangerous amount of pollutants, including the toxic chemical known as benzene, infesting the groundwater near the site and the air was becoming highly intoxicated by emitted chemicals and gases.

Site of Benzene Emissions Finally Closed

According to reports, the six oil companies who were operating the facility agreed to close the site after threats of lawsuits and ongoing protests were thrown upon them. Although this decision was made 15 years ago, community leaders and occupants are now hopeful that they will finally start to see change as crews began clearing the field in the past few weeks.

Many believe that there will still be trace amounts of pollutants like benzene left in the area, even after the cleanup; however, the EPA says that the amount left behind, if any, won't be enough to cause any physical harm.

"If the tank farm really has been cleaned up, we want it to be something that serves the neighborhood," explains a local, touching on concerns that linger among some tank-farm neighbors.

The site, which has been open and operating for over 55 years, was operated by big whig oil companies like Exxon, Chevron, Citgo and Mobil. In the 1950's the surrounding areas of this field began being developed and many neighborhoods sprang up. Benzene is one of the leading causes of diseases like leukemia and aplastic anemia and as more research became exposed about the chemical, locals began worrying for their own safety and well-being. When many farmers in the community began having health problems, they knew exactly where to point fingers and so the protests began.

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Reports are talking about the International Fuel Quality Center's (IFQC) recent ranking if the top 100 countries in regards to benzene content standards in their gasoline. According to these reports, Colombia ranked number one with the lowest benzene limits and earliest implementation of any benzene related-laws. Canada was ranked at second place while Luxembourg came in third.
 
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified the chemical known as benzene as being a Group A, known human carcinogen. This toxic solvent has been found to cause various illness to the bone marrow and bloodstream, and is most notable responsible for causing leukemia among those exposed. It can be found in naturally crude oil and is also used as an additive in certain dyes, for the production of synthetic rubbers and in cigarettes. Officials for the EPA say that controlling the amount of benzene in gasoline is the most effective way to limit its emissions from vehicles.

"The current global trend is to reduce benzene content in gasoline, as it's also seen as the most effective way to reduce human exposure to the chemical," explains Lisa Kiuru, executive director, IFQC.

How Do Most Countries Rank?

The rankings show that a majority of the countries throughout the world don't have any individual specifications for gasoline and low level gasoline-ethanol blends, like Colombia.
 
European countries reportedly topped the ranking, along with many Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan, which was tied at 18th with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

The U.S. is ranked at 67th place, due to the fact that these rankings are based upon national maximum allowance standards and U.S. standards were last updated in 1997. Researchers did note though, that the state of California could have ranked first if it was its own country because its gasoline benzene limit is 0.7 vol%.

The complete ranking the top 100 countries by gasoline benzene content standards can be found on the IFQC's web site.

 

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According to a recent study out of Italy, there is new evidence that exposure to benzene can not only increase people’s risk of leukemia, but it’s also linked to multiple myeloma. For years, benzene, which is a toxic chemical that is commonly used as an additive in gasoline, in the production of synthetic rubbers and sodas, has been linked to leukemia and aplastic anemia. However, researchers are now finding that benzene is the cause if other illness as well.

The study was conducted by Dr. Adele Seniori Constantini from the Center for Study and Prevention of Cancer, along with some of her colleagues. The researchers reportedly found that benzene can cause an increased risk of chronic lymphoid leukemia as well multiple myeloma. Two other chemicals, xylene and toluene were also linked with exposure to benzene.

 Study Reveals New Findings

Although Constantini has revealed the results from the new study, benzene’s link with multiple myeloma are reportedly still under debate. In order to investigate the results of benzene exposure, the team of researchers identified all known cases of blood and lymphatic cancers in people ages 20 to 74 in 11 different parts of Italy.

They also looked at 586 cases of leukemia found in seven of the regions and compared chemical exposures for individuals who were sick and to those based on occupation.

The study found that medium to high levels of benzene exposure nearly doubled the risk of these two blood cancers. The more intense levels of exposure were to participants and the longer it lasted, the greater the risk that they would develop a life altering illness.

"Our results, even if based on small numbers, are in agreement with the hypothesis that acute myeloid leukemia risk following benzene exposure declines in time while chronic lymphoid leukemia and multiple myeloma risks are seen over a longer latency period,” claims the research team.

 

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A wastewater treatment company in Shreveport, Louisiana, is currently being investigated due to recent findings that benzene and other toxic chemicals from the plant were being dumped into the Red River. The facility was reportedly shut down in October 2007 after the river was found to be polluted. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality conducted several tests on the water and publicly revealed that hazardous waste from the plant was being disposed of in the river.

Among the toxins that were found to be polluting the river were benzene, toluene and xylene. Each of these chemicals can be extremely dangerous to those exposed and have been linked to various forms of cancer, including leukemia, lung cancer and aplastic anemia.

Ongoing Waste Problems

Despite the legal troubles the waste facility, known as CCS, is facing they are reportedly still seeking permission to discharge wastewater and storm water into areas where they would eventually find their way into the Red River.

Reports from a review of federal and state records related to CCS reveals:

• The illegal dumping of wastewater into Red River
• Four hidden tanks of hazardous waste that were supposedly identified by company officials as treated wastewater
• Concerns about accepting and treating wastewaters in early 2008

The findings of benzene are of most concern to health officials since the chemical is a known carcinogen and can cause fatal illnesses to those exposed over an extended period of time. Benzene can be found in gasoline, cigarettes and sodas.

 

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Members of the Edison Wetlands Association, an environmental group in New Jersey had been holding protests in front of the Basell USA chemical plant claiming that they are exposing the community to benzene. The group claims that the plant has been seeping toxic chemicals into the local Raritan River.

The rally, which began on November 12, has drawn over 20 people who have remained committed to seeking answers regarding the toxic leak for weeks. However, despite the obvious signs that benzene is still a problem in the area, Executive Director of the EWA, Robert Spiegel, denies that benzene is still seeping into the river.

"We wanted to make sure we have a more public presence here, so that the companies know that we are going to be out here every two weeks until they clean this up, because this is a disaster, this is an environmental disaster area out here, and for them to leave it one day is, in my opinion, borders on criminal," says Spiegel.

Benzene Problems Persist

The area surrounding the river has been an ongoing subject of debate due to questions regarding whether benzene is still putting the community at risk. The environmental group claims that toxic chemicals, like benzene, from the plant have been improperly contained in the ground and water. This has resulted in extensive damage to the plant and animal life in the surrounding areas and has also created a public health hazard.




 

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Residents in Cadillac, Michigan, are voicing their concern over groundwater contamination in Cedar Creek Township. According to reports, a local resident recently had samples taken from trees on his land, which is about one mile northwest of Wexford County landfill, due to his growing concerns that they were contaminated by dangerous chemicals.

Months later, Donald Alger discovered that his original intuition was correct and the trees were indeed contaminated with four types of volatile compounds. Results showed that the trees were contaminated with benzene, toluene, styrene and tetracloroethylene.

Land Contaminated with Benzene

The land, which was originally purchased to serve as the home to Alger’s shiitake mushroom growing operation, was found to be highly contaminated with benzene and other toxic chemicals. As a result, not only were all of the plants ruined, but these chemicals were seeping into the neighbor’s yards and contaminated their land and groundwater as well. Alger immediately knew exactly who to blame, the nearby landfill.

DEQ Fights Back

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality reportedly has been attempting to fight back against Alger and his claims regarding the landfill being the place to blame. However, Alger isn’t the only one pointing fingers, the entire community is up in arms and are concerned that they could now be the victims of benzene exposure.

Benzene is a highly toxic carcinogen that can be potentially fatal to those who inhale, ingest or handle it over an extended period of time. Since many of the plants on Alger’s land just showed signs of harm recently, residents are concerned that this benzene issue could be something that was ongoing without their knowledge.

"They’ve dirtied up my property," stated Alger.

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Recent reports are being exposed regarding an event that took place in July, which could prove to put many lives at risk. In mid-summer a hydrologist reportedly dropped a plastic sampling pipe nearly 300 feet down a water well in Sublette County, Wyoming. What he discovered next was anything but comforting for the rural community. The water below was found to be brown, oily and contained a foul smell. When tested, the water was found to contain benzene, a known carcinogen that has been linked to aplastic anemia.

The amount of benzene found in the water was supposedly 1,500 times the level safe for human beings. When the news was released, state and federal regulatory agencies were sent into a frenzy. Aplastic anemia is a potentially fatal condition for which some treatments can't cure.
 
Investigation Ensues Regarding Benzene Problems

After the benzene-filled water discovery ProPublica found that water contamination in the several other drilling areas throughout the country are more prevalent than what meets EPA standards. However, in each case found, it was difficult for researchers to pinpoint exactly what was causing the contamination and measure it across the environment accordingly.

"I am looking more and more at water quality issues…because of a growing concern," explains Joyel Dhieux, a drilling field inspector who handles environmental review at the EPA's regional offices in Denver. "But if you don't know what's in it I don't think it's possible."

Aplastic Anemia Scare

Aside from the obvious panic that was sent through the small Wyoming County and many others with this sudden water contamination problem, is the risk at the core of the issue: cancer. Benzene has been known to cause aplastic anemia and leukemia in those exposed over extended periods of time. Although aplastic anemia, which is an illness of the blood cells, isn't always severe, aplastic anemia treatments vary and aren't always effective in helping those with the health condition. As a result, many member of the community are getting physicals and have a growing concern for their own health as they educate themselves about benzene and aplastic anemia treatments available.

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A couple living in Arizona recently filed a lawsuit in the Eastern District of Texas claiming wrongful exposure to benzene. The suit filed states that the plaintiff, Brian Foray, was wrongly exposed to the toxic chemical benzene while working for 17 years as a mechanic and maintenance worker. Twelve years after his exposure, Foray has been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, which is a sometimes fatal condition that is linked to benzene exposure.

 

After receiving his diagnosis, Foray and his wife, Francesca, have chosen to take action on their behalf and in the name of so many others who may have suffered as the result of employer negligence. The suit has been filed against Safety-Kleen Systems Inc., which is a corporation based out of Plano, Texas.

 

Benzene Details and Its Link to MDS

 

Benzene is a colorless liquid that has been labeled a known carcinogen since research has shown its obvious link to various cancers like leukemia and lung cancer. The chemical is often used as an additive in gasoline, soda, and is contained in cigarettes. Myelodysplastic syndromes, or MDS, are known as a group of diseases that affect the bone marrow. Although MDS is a somewhat rare disease, in a majority of cases it has been found to be associated with benzene exposure.

 

Foray says that while working for the defendant, he cleaned parts and heavy equipment with substances containing benzene. The complaint also states that Safety-Kleen manufactured and sold parts that were washed in benzene, which as a result exposed the workers to the toxin. The suit states the defendant acted with negligence and is to blame for Foray's current health condition.
 

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According to recent reports, health officials in Reading, Pennsylvania have found asbestos and benzene on a former industrial site. The toxic chemicals have become quite the controversy in the town since the Reading School District planned to build three schools on the property.

According to district officials, the plan, until the recent chemicals were exposed, was to build a 300-student elementary school on the former Luden’s Candy property. The long-term goal for the property was to build seven new schools over the next three years. The site was sold to the district by The Hershey Co. for $3.85 million in June.

Benzene Found at Site

William F. Cinfici, a board member in Reading claims that just last week the site tested positive for both benzene and asbestos. Both of these substances are known carcinogens and can be fatal to those who are exposed over time. Since the findings, the school district has terminated the sales and has been looking for other pieces of property to build the smaller, safer schools they originally set out to develop.

“The board is doing its due diligence,” says Dr. Thomas R. Chapman Jr., superintendent.
Although Chapman and the other school officials were disappointed with the tests results, they understand that building the schools would be far too risky for employees, children and the community as a whole.

Dangers of Benzene Exposure

Benzene is a commonly used chemical for the production of dyes, as an additive in gasoline and in the manufacturing of synthetic rubbers, amongst other things. When benzene is inhaled, ingested or handled it can be extremely toxic and even fatal. Various forms of cancer such as leukemia, lung cancer and MDS have been linked to benzene exposure and as a result health officials across the country are consistently testing and researching industrial sites like the one in Reading to prevent benzene emissions.
 

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The Simmes family, who owns the Simmes Ranch northwest of the Texaco gasoline refinery in Montana, recently filed a suit against several oil refineries. The lawsuit claims that the refineries are emitting large amounts of benzene, which is a known carcinogen, and putting the nearby community at risk.

 

The Simmes family says their land and underground water has become polluted with benzene and other toxins from the refineries leaking storage tanks. This is not the first benzene related lawsuit that has been filed in Cascade County. According to reports, a lawsuit filed by the Sunburst School District in 2001 against the refineries resulted in a $16 million settlement in the district’s favor. However, this case still isn’t completely settled seeing as the jury still needs to look again at the negotiations between Texaco and the state Department of Environmental Quality before awarding $25 million in punitive damages.

 

Benzene Lawsuit Details

 

The benzene lawsuit file names Chevron, Texaco and Pacific Hide and Fur Depot, the company that bought the Texaco facility in 1961, in the lawsuit. The benzene problems were originally discovered in 2004 when the DEQ investigated the areas surrounding the refineries and discovered a second plume of underground contaminants where two storage tanks once sat on the refineries properties.

 

“I would hope that this be the case that gets to trial much faster than the last one did,” says Mark Kovacich, the attorney for the Simmes family. The lawsuit is asking for the companies to pay for punitive damages and for the cleanup of the site.

 

 Benzene is a toxic chemical that can lead to the development of leukemia, MDS, and other forms of cancer when people are exposed over an extended period of time. The chemical is often used as an additive in gasoline and hundreds of lawsuits have been filed in the past few years against companies like Texaco involving benzene exposure.

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LyondellBasdell Industries is based in Houston and manufactures products “essential to the quality of life and the mobility of people.” However, the safety and environmental care with which the company runs their business is currently being questioned by the city. Houston’s mayor, Bill White, has requested that a regulatory permit be implemented at the Houston refinery and has voiced his concern for benzene emissions.

White wants to reduce the amount of emissions at the refinery by 41 percent, but LyondellBasell doesn’t feel such a regulation is necessary. A spokesperson for the refinery says that “While we do not agree with the assumptions made in the city's filing, we are encouraged that the city has finally elected to utilize the regulatory process developed through legislative authority rather than the extralegal procedures previously pursued.”

The Dangers of Benzene

The debate regarding a permit has become heated due to the severity of the topic at hand. Benzene is a toxic chemical and known carcinogen that has been causing more harm than good in the city of Houston in recent years. Benzene is often used as an additive in gasoline and is also typically used in the production of synthetic rubbers and various dyes.

When people are exposed to benzene over an extended period of time, they are put at risk of developing life-threatening illnesses like leukemia, MDS, and lung cancer. The problem is, which coincides with White’s concerns for Houston residents and the refinery’s workers, many people are exposed to the substance without their knowledge. In these cases they develop somewhat common symptoms like easy bruising and infections before being diagnosed with something more severe than the common cold.

 

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As the season changes more and more Americans are turning to their fireplaces, bonfires and woodstoves to keep warm at night. And there’s no better place to spend the holidays than with your loved ones beside a fire; however, new reports have surfaced regarding the toxic chemicals that can be emitted through fires and the effect these chemicals could have on your health and the environment.

 

Studies have specifically focused on the air quality in the Portland metro region, which does not have a history of being pristine or healthy. According to reports from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, fourteen percent of the days in September were categorized as being moderately polluted. Reports prove that from October first and eighth, two days had moderate levels of pollution in Portland, which is 25 percent. Among the chemicals that have been found in the air is benzene, a known carcinogen linked to leukemia.

 

The Hazards of Wood Smoke

 

In order for health officials to maintain control over what is being emitted into our air, the DEQ collects information from air monitors before raw data is converted into the Air Quality Index. And experts claim, the air quality is typically the worst in the winter months.
“Temperature inversions trap cold at the surface and cases problems because so many people heat with wood,” explains Susan Drake from the Oregon DEQ Air Quality Office.

 

Wood smoke is of particular concern since it’s a major cause of particle pollution. Wood doesn’t completely burn in any stove or fireplace and as a result a vaporous blend of gases, including benzene, are released into the air, and potentially inhaled by humans. Particles that are less than 10 micrometers in diameter can embed deep into the lungs and often even get trapped in the bloodstream. In turn, this can cause severe coughs and in some cases develop into a type of cancer if the exposure lasts for a long period of time.

 

The DEQ is reportedly going to approach the Oregon Legislature in the upcoming months with bills that will include funds to help people change out older uncertified woodstoves with more clean-burning, certified woodstoves. The bills are also going to be created to better define woodstove to the public and prevent the indoor burning of trash.

 

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