Where It Comes From
Petrochemical production, oil/gas refining, vehicle exhaust, biomass burning, and natural release from plants and ripening fruit [1][3].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing outdoor air near traffic or industrial sites; workplace exposure in petrochemical plants, refineries, fruit‑ripening rooms, or greenhouses; accidental cylinder releases [1][2][3].
Why It Matters
High concentrations can cause headache, dizziness, confusion, loss of consciousness, or death from lack of oxygen; liquefied gas can cause frostbite on contact. Ethylene is not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans (IARC Group 3) [1][2][4].
Who Is at Risk
Workers handling ethylene; people in enclosed/poorly ventilated areas; individuals with heart or lung disease (more vulnerable to low oxygen) [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Ensure good ventilation, avoid confined spaces with possible gas buildup, use workplace gas monitoring and safe cylinder handling, and don’t run engines indoors; typical community air levels are low [1][2][3].
References
- [1]WHO/IPCS Poisons Information Monograph (PIM 020): Ethene (Ethylene).
- [2]CDC/NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Ethylene.
- [3]U.S. EPA, Hazard Summary: Ethylene (OAQPS/TTN Air Toxics).
- [4]IARC Monographs, Overall Evaluations of Carcinogenicity, Supplement 7: Ethylene (Group 3).