ABSTRACT
Benzene is a hydrocarbon manufactured from petroleum and also a natural product in the environment including in some foods. It is present in cigarette smoke and a common combustion product. Drinking water contamination can occur from spills, leaking underground gasoline storage tanks, or other releases from improper chemical waste disposal. Exposure occurs from occupations in processes that use or emit benzene, airborne inhalation, traces in foods and alcoholic beverages, and minimal amounts in some drinking waters. Most surface and groundwaters contain no detectable benzene. Well water contaminated with gasoline from leaking underground storage tanks or a nearby hazardous waste site often contains some benzene. Granular activated carbon and packed tower aeration are available to water treatment plants. Benzene is well regulated and seldom present in public drinking water supplies. All of the regulations are very protective because drinking water is a very minor source of exposure compared to outdoor and indoor air inhalation and smoking.
