Measurement of benzene and other volatile organic compounds: implications for its inhalation health risk associated with the workers at a fuel station in Delhi

Abstract Exposure to benzene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene, ethylbenzene, o -, m p -xylene (BTEX) at a fuel station is hazardous for the workers. This study aims estimate health risk worker due exposure of BTEX after implementation vapour recovery system (VRS) stations. Air samples were collected using low-flow sampling pump as per NIOSH method by Tenax (sorbent) tubes charcoal tubes. Target extracted acetone analysed gas chromatography equipped with flame ionization detector (FID). The cancer (CR) hazard quotient (HQ) estimated assess non-cancer following United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) updated methodology. average concentration VOCs found in order toluene > xylene ethylbenzene which may be attributed composition (petrol/diesel). Benzene most carcinogenic among BTEX, 217 ± 9 µg −3 158 month November 2021 sorbent tubes, respectively. high observed its adsorption efficacy than larger surface area porosity. 7-month CR value was × 10 −4 exceeds acceptable range 1 −6 . under also compared that outdoor ambient air exposure. measurement data same duration taken from nearby online monitoring Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) PUSA HQ hence increased also. Hazard index (HI) greater indicates adverse effects station. values are matter concern