Hydrocarbons (CₓHᵧ)
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Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. In occupational hygiene, the term most commonly refers to petroleum-derived compounds including aliphatic hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes), aromatic hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene), and complex mixtures such as gasoline, diesel fuel, and mineral spirits. Exposure occurs through inhalation of vapors in petroleum refining, chemical processing, fuel handling, painting, and printing industries. Health effects range from central nervous system depression and narcosis at high concentrations to skin defatting and, for specific aromatic hydrocarbons, carcinogenicity with chronic exposure. Hydrocarbon vapor monitoring is essential for LEL/flammability assessment and health-based exposure evaluations.
Hydrocarbon vapors are common in refineries, petrochemical facilities, tank farms, fuel handling, and paint and coating operations. Rent hydrocarbon and VOC monitoring instruments from RAECO Rents to support leak checks, hot work screening, and exposure assessments where flammable or toxic vapors may be present. All gas instruments are bump tested before shipment and supported with routine span calibration so crews can trust the readings in the field.
Regulatory Exposure Limits
As of March 09, 2026
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NIOSH REL
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ACGIH TLV
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