SHELL Benzene onscreen GB

HEALTHBENZENEWork safely or not at allStrict procedures apply when work is undertaken in closed installations and systems. Nevertheless,there is a risk of hazardous and noxious substances being released. For thisreason, read the work permit carefully and check whether the supervisory measures describedare actually in place. Adopt the precautionary measures which apply to the workyou are going to carry out.Always remain alert to the emergence of increased concentrations of hazardous and noxioussubstances. If in doubt: STOP work and ask!

HEALTHBENZENEBENZENEIn the production process natural gas condensate is separated fromthe natural gas and stored. One of the components of natural gascondensate is benzene. This substance is carcinogenic.Therefore prevent any contact with benzene.Characteristics of benzene• Evaporates quickly (volatile)• Vapour is heavier than air• Very highly flammable• Reacts violently with acids• Is explosive• Strong solvent which can degrease the skin (causing dermatitis)

HEALTHBENZENERisks of benzene• Irritates the airways• Carcinogenic• Harmful to the environment• Dangerously flammable and explosive

HEALTHBENZENEExposure to benzene...InhalationSkin (contact)SwallowingLong-termcontactirritation, headache, nausea,dizziness, unconsciousness,pneumoniaredness, raw skin, itchiness,headache, dizziness,painirritation of the lips, mouthand throat (burning sensation)skin eczema, broken skin, dematitis,anaemia,leukaemia,damage to DNA

HEALTHBENZENEInhalation, swallowing of contact?InhalationSkin (contact)Eyes (contact)SwallowingSeriousexposureBring the person out into the fresh air,allow him to restRemove contaminated clothingWet the clothing (prevent fire)Wash skin with lots of soap and waterRinse with lots of waterRemove any contact lenses(if possible)Rinse the mouthDo not induce vomitingAlert a doctor immediately(refer to MSDS and contact Your Healthand Safety Service)

HEALTHBENZENEWhere/when is benzene found?• Draining sections of pipes and tanks• Measuring or taking samples• Cleaning or changing (glycol) filters• Disconnecting/clearing up hoses• Insufficient ventilation/blowout vents• Extraction/transfer of ‘contaminated’ pbm’s• Work to clean up contamination

HEALTHBENZENEWork preparation procedures• familiarize yourself with the risks associated with the work in question• discuss these risks in detail• take all necessary precautionary measures• use the appropriate items of personal safety equipment• see to it that the area is well ventilated or install extra air extractionequipment

HEALTHBENZENEPrevent exposure – before workBefore work begins, measurements must be taken by an authorised gastester.Prevent exposure – during work• Continue to constantly take measurements• Register the measurement results on the work permit• Use drip trays when benzene can spill from the system• Ensure there is good ventilation• Immediately fence off contaminated areas with danger tape• Always wear the correct PPE as detailed in the COSHH assessment

HEALTHBENZENEWhat to do with a spilt product?• pay attention: benzene is dangerously flammable and explosive• Stop the work• Evacuate the danger zone• Report the incident to the responsible person for the siteWhich personal protection equipment?• < 0.5 ppm - basic PPE (overalls and eye protection)• 0.5 – 10 ppm- basic PPE- full-face mask with appropriate filter - eg SR100/200• > 10 ppm - basic PPE- Independent respiratory protection- Waterproof (disposable) overallsWorkplace Exposure Limit: 0.5ppm

HEALTHBENZENEAdvice: As well as the basic PPE also use Vysol PVC or Nitrile gloves andavoid all contact with benzene.Continue to avoid contact or ‘contamination’• Use the correct PPE in the prescribed manner• Use clean face pieces (face masks)• Use the correct filter (or compressed air)• Have used face pieces cleaned after use• Collect filters after use as chemical waste• Pay attention when taking off/removing/throwing away PPE

HEALTHBENZENEPersonal hygieneWash your hands:• Before eating, drinking and smoking• Before using the toilet• Before leaving the siteHave you any questions? Do you require more information?You can always contact the responsible person at the site.See EPE Manual 3139-010 Benzene Management Policy & Procedure