Benzol Poisoning in Chemical Laboratories. Benzol poisoning has been found a distinct health hazard in many chemical laboratories as well as in certain manufacturing plants, reports J. J. Bloomiield of the U. S. Public Health Senice. In laboratories in which tests are made in connection with rubber, paint, oil, and varnish, benzol is extensively used, not only in the tests but as a solvent for cleaning apparatus and the hands and arms of the workers. The concentration of more than 100 parts per million of b e n d in the workroom air constitutes a health hazard. Substitutes for this substance are recommended to be used as far as possible, particularly for cleaning. The number of white blood cells is considerably reduced in chronic benwl poisoning, and the nature of the cells also undergoes change. Routine physical examinations of the workers. incluiliw examination of the blwd, are recommended upon employment, and frequently thereafter, as a means of checking this condition in plants where benzol cannot be dispensed with altogether.-Science Se&e
