3081 A critical review of current biological monitoring techniques for the assessment of exposure to low levels of benzene

Overview:

The EI has previously published guidance on biological monitoring to assess benzene exposure in 1993 and 2000. At the time of the 2000 review, it was found that for benzene exposures below 0,1 ppm it was 'not appropriate' to recommend any measure at that time. This document provides an update to the 2000 review.

This report outlines recent advances in biological monitoring techniques for benzene, focusing on the suitability for measuring exposure to low occupational levels of benzene, and guidance is given to determine the most appropriate biomarker for use. Some strategies to help assess occupational exposure to benzene above background environmental levels are also discussed.