Risk assessment of occupational exposure to BTEX in the National Oil Distribution Company in Iran (original) (raw)

BACKGROUND : This study evaluated the quantitative, carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk of exposure to BTEX using lifetime cancer risk (LCR) and hazard quotient (HQ) in the National Company for Distribution of Petroleum Products in Iran. METHODS : In this risk assessment method, the data were collected in different parts of the company. In order to determine the concentration of BTEX, sampling was carried out in different parts using activated carbon. A Gas Chromatography–Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) was used for analysis. Analysis and sampling was conducted according to the NIOSH 1500 method. For carcinogenic risk assessment, LCR was calculated. For non-carcinogenic risk assessment, HQ was calculated. RESULTS : The carcinogenetic risk of benzene was definite for loading and deep handling units, and safety officer, and was probable rank for sealing, inspection gate, security, loading 1, and deep handling units. The carcinogenic risk of ethylbenzene was definite for quality ...