The Effects of Benzene on Gulf Offshore Workers

Benzene is a chemical that almost everyone encounters just about every day. However, when you are working on a Gulf Coast oil rig or platform, you may be continuously exposed to dangerous quantities.

Benzene occurs naturally after volcanic reactions and forest fires, but it is most often the result of human work. Benzene is a highly flammable chemical. It has a sweet odor and can cause illness in people exposed to it. It is found in many workplaces—including all gasoline-related industries—and occurs as a natural component of crude oil.

You can become ill from benzene exposure through your skin, but most people get sick from breathing it, either short-term or long-term. Short-term effects of benzene exposure through inhalation include:

• Drowsiness and/or dizziness
  
• Change in heart rate
  
• Headaches
  
• Confusion
  
• Tremors
  
• Unconsciousness
  
• Even death, at high concentrations
  

If you are regularly exposed to benzene offshore for a year or more, some of the long-term effects include:

• Changes in the blood, including decreased red blood cells, anemia, bleeding, and/or a weakened immune system
  
• Abnormal development in pregnant animals, such as low birth weight, bone formation delays and damage to bone marrow
  
• Certain types of cancer, specifically leukemia and other cancers of the blood cells
  

If you have suffered illness while working on a Gulf Coast oil rig or at any other maritime job, benzene could be the cause. If so, get medical help right away. Your employer possibly has neglected OSHA guidelines to keep you safe. Contact the Houston maritime lawyers at Vujasinovic & Beckcom to explore your legal options. Call us toll-free today at 888-472-1440 for a free consultation.