Toxicology of crude oil

A SOUTH African petroleum company, Engen Petroleum Ltd., considers crude oil hazardous to one’s health and on its web site, notes that the product “contains polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs). Under conditions of poor personal hygiene and prolonged repeated contact, some PACs have been suspected as a cause of skin cancer in humans. Overexposure to benzene can result in blood disorders and damage to the bone marrow. In rare instances leukemia has also been reported. Possible skin irritation and dermatitis. Respiratory irritation, dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness.” Click here for its hazard page.

Also, click the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the effects of benzene exposure.

These are the health risks being faced by the unprotected volunteers and workers cleaning up the Guimaras oil spill.