Benzene’s Role in Jet Fuel
Jet fuel is primarily composed of kerosene and other hydrocarbons, but it also contains trace amounts of benzene. Although benzene itself is not added to jet fuel intentionally, its presence can result from:
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Crude oil sources: Benzene is a naturally occurring constituent of crude oil, the primary feedstock for jet fuel;
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Refining processes: Certain refining methods can lead to the formation or concentration of benzene in fuels; and
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Additive residues: Some fuel additives or blending components may introduce benzene as a byproduct.
The inclusion of benzene in jet fuel is generally minimal, as high concentrations are not required for the fuel’s performance. However, even trace levels are significant due to benzene’s health and environmental implications.
Health and Environmental Risks
Benzene is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and other health organizations. There is no “safe” level of benzene exposures. Prolonged or excessive exposure to benzene can lead to blood and bone cancers, including:
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Acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
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Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
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Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL)
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Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL)
Who is at Risk and Why?
Airport workers who fuel planes as well as the workers who manage the storage and delivery of jet fuel are most at risk for benzene exposure. Proper personal protective equipment like respirators and rubber gloves can limit benzene exposure.. Regulatory agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforce permissible exposure limits for benzene in the workplace. Unfortunately, not every worker is offered PPE and not all workplace regulations are enforced.
Experienced Benzene Lawyers
The lawyers at Hughes Law Offices focus on helping clients get compensation from manufacturers of benzene-containing products like jet fuel. The petroleum industry has thousands of attorneys and nearly unlimited resources they use against sick workers. You need experienced attorneys to handle these complex cases. If you or someone you love was diagnosed with leukemia and worked with or around jet fuel, call 1-800-BENZENE for a free consultation today.
