the toxic truth - Greenpeace

220 Amnesty internAtionAl And greenpeAce netherlAnds
ANNEX I
beNzeNe, xyleNe aND TolueNe
Toluene, xylene and benzene are in the
category aromatics which comprised some
6.2 per cent of the hydrocarbon phase and
weighed 8.5 tons. These chemicals would have
been most abundant in the hydrocarbon phase
of the waste and would be expected to have
evaporated relatively quickly from the surface,
giving rise to potential exposure through
inhalation of vapours or contact with skin.
These organic chemicals have the potential
at high concentrations to bring on asthmatic
symptoms in individuals who already have
asthma. The general short term effect of
exposure to these organic solvents is on
the central nervous system, with individuals
becoming drowsy and developing headaches.
Benzene, for example, can be absorbed into
the body either by inhalation, through the
skin, or ingestion. The chemical is irritating
to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, and
any swallowing may cause aspiration into the
lungs with the risk of a chemical pneumonitis
(oedema, or water retention in the lungs). There
may be effects on the central nervous system,
resulting in the lowering of consciousness.
If the vapour concentration is high enough
individuals may become unconscious and die.
Effects of inhalation include dizziness,
drowsiness, headache, nausea, shortness of
breath, convulsions and unconsciousness.
The chemical may be absorbed across the
skin and as it defats the skin, the skin will
become dry, red and painful.
Exposure of the eyes will cause them to
become red and painful. Any ingestion will
result in abdominal pain, sore throat and
vomiting. Exposure to benzene can have
effects on bone marrow and the immune
system, and the chemical is a recognized
cancer causing agent in humans.
Toluene is another solvent which is similarly
irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract
and capable of causing effects on the
central nervous system, even leading to
cardiac dysrhythmia (heart irregulatories)
and unconsciousness at very high exposure
levels. Exposed individuals may complain of
a cough, sore throat, dizziness, drowsiness,
headache and nausea, as well as redness
and pain if skin is exposed directly. Exposure
to high levels of xylene can cause similar
symptoms.
The toxicologist also noted that, that many of
the chemicals are respiratory tract irritants,
it is to be expected that individuals with
any breathing problems such as asthma, or
bronchitis could experience an exacerbation of
these symptoms following exposure. Exposure
to many of the organic solvents and any of the
irritants could bring on an asthmatic reaction
in sensitive individuals.