Abstract
This paper presents a study of aromatic hydrocarbon (benzene, toluene, and xylene) exposure in a coke oven by-product plant of an integrated steel mill. Three commercial aromatic hydrocarbon detector kits were used concurrently and evaluated for field use. The accuracy of each detector was determined by a comparison with results obtained by collecting the air-borne aromatic hydrocarbons in a silica gel adsorption apparatus and subsequent laboratory analysis. The ratio of inorganic to total sulfate in the urine was utilized as a biological index of exposure, and the results were compared with time weighted average concentrations to which the individuals were exposed. The study showed no excessive aromatic hydrocarbon exposure to employees in this plant.