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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