ABSTRACT
Jet propulsion fuel-8 (JP-8, also known as MIL-T-83133D, AVTUR, or F-34) is a kerosene-based hydrocarbon distillate fuel. It contains approximately 228 long/ short-chain aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons (C6-C14). The low volatility characteristics of JP-8 allow it to be a potential toxic irritant on the respiratory system. JP-8 has become the primary fuel source for the U.S. Armed Forces and North Atlantic Treaty Organization forces. JP-8 is an attractive alternative to JP-4 jet fuel due to its relatively low vapor pressure and high flash point temperature that reduces the risk of spontaneous explosions. It is estimated that worldwide utilizations are approximately five billion gallons (approximately 19 109 L) per year. Because of the volumes produced and the multipurpose nature of the fuel, there is potential for exposures to JP-8 in several forms-aerosol, vapor, or liquid. Occupational exposures to JP-8 may occur during fuel transport, aircraft fueling and defueling, aircraft maintenance, cold aircraft engine starts, maintenance of equipment and machinery, use of tent heaters, and cleaning or degreasing with fuel. The U.S. Navy Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (NAVOSH) has proposed interim exposure limits of 350 and 1800 mg/m3 as the eight-hour permissible exposure limit and the 15-minute short-term exposure limit, respectively. These limits are based on the U.S. National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health regulatory levels for more volatile petroleum distillates.
