Benzene lawsuits against soft drink manufacturers and other companies continue to be filed in the United States. Although benzene was banned as a solvent it is still an ingredient in soft drinks, lubricants, rubber, detergents, pesticides, and other products. The use of benzene can be listed as a trade secret by a company. When this happens, the company isn’t required to list it as part of its ingredients.
Why Were Benzene Lawsuits Filed?
If companies can list the use of benzene as a trade secret, do we really have anything to worry about? Surely companies can’t be legally allowed to use a chemical that can hurt the public, right? Wrong. Benzene was banned in the United States as a solvent, but it continues to be used in many industries. Benzene lawsuits were filed because benzene can cause the development of benzene cancer, myelodysplatic syndrome, and benzene leukemia. Because of the severe diseases caused by it, the FDA posted a public list of soft drinks and other beverages that contain the carcinogen. While some beverage companies stopped using benzene, many others haven’t and many consumers have no idea that it is being used.
Occupational Risks of Benzene
In 1987, federal regulators issued a restriction for occupational benzene exposure to one part per million. Later, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health issued a recommendation that exposure be limited to .01 parts per million. Despite the restriction and recommendation, it is estimated that around 238,000 workers are still exposed to benzene and at risk for developing illnesses related to the chemical.
How Does Benzene Affect You?
Benzene can be caused naturally and it can be manmade. It is highly flammable and has a sweet smelling odor. When you’re exposed to benzene, your cells may not work correctly. Your body may stop producing the necessary amount of red blood cells to keep you healthy. You could develop anemia and your immune system can become serious compromised. If you’ve been exposed to high levels of benzene, you may notice the following symptoms. If you do, get medical care right away.
- Drowsiness
- Feelings of dizziness
- Tremors
- Development of an irregular heartbeat
- Confusion
- Severe headache
- You pass out
- Death
If you ingest a high level of benzene in a food or beverage, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Seizures
- Rapid heartbeat
- Death
Long-term exposure can lead to cancer and other serious illnesses. If you or someone you love was exposed to benzene and became sick, you may qualify to receive compensation through a benzene lawsuit.
Goldwater Law Firm
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or benzene poisoning, contact Goldwater Law Firm to book your free case evaluation. We will evaluate your claim and inform you of your legal options. If you’re eligible to file a Benzene lawsuit, you could receive financial compensation for your medical care, loss of wages, and pain and suffering. To learn more, contact Goldwater Law Firm right away.