Benzene vapor is absorbed well by inhalation and is a mild respiratory-tract irritant. The liquid is a mild skin irritant with slow skin absorption.
Respiratory Protection: Positive-pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is recommended in response situations that involve exposure to potentially unsafe levels of benzene vapor (i.e., greater than 300 ppm for 1 hour).
Skin Protection: Chemical-protective clothing is not generally required when only vapor exposure is expected because benzene vapor is neither irritating nor absorbed well through the skin. Chemical-protective clothing is recommended when contact with liquid benzene is anticipated because skin irritation and dermal absorption occur.