Canadian Council of Ministers
of the Environment

Le Conseil canadien des ministres
de l'environnement

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Benzene

Benzene is a toxic substance for which there is considered to be some probability of harmful effects at any level of exposure. On the basis of available data, benzene is carcinogenic to humans. A phased approach to benzene reductions was endorsed by Canadian ministers of the environment (except Québec) in June 2000, when ministers ratified the Canada-wide Standard for Benzene Phase 1. Phase 2 of the Benzene CWS was endorsed by ministers (except Québec) in October 2001. Phase 2 considered information made available since the drafting of the Phase 1 CWS, as well as co-benefits from implementation of other Canada-wide standards.