Consultation on proposed B.C. Exposure Limit (EL) for benzene

An exposure limit is the maximum allowed airborne concentration of a substance that must not be exceeded and is intended to protect nearly all workers over a working lifetime. Regulatory exposure limits exist to ensure the risk of an adverse health effect on workers, due to occupational exposure to specific chemical substances, is minimized.

WorkSafeBC is requesting stakeholder feedback on the proposed amendments to the B.C. exposure limit (EL) for benzene. It is proposed to: (1) adopt an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) of 0.2 ppm as a B.C. EL; and (2) withdraw the existing 15-minute short-term exposure limit (STEL). This harmonizes with the European Union’s (EU’s) binding occupational exposure limit value (OELV).

Before adopting new or revised B.C. ELs, WorkSafeBC reviews relevant data on health effects and the availability of validated sampling methods. WorkSafeBC also consults with stakeholders on potential implementation issues. WorkSafeBC’s existing B.C. ELs continue to be in effect until the Board of Directors makes a decision on the proposed amendments. See additional information on WorkSafeBC’s EL review process.

Providing feedback

View the proposed B.C. EL and provide feedback

Feedback will be accepted until 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2026.

Policy, Regulation and Research Department
WorkSafeBC