Styrene is primarily a synthetic chemical that is used
extensively in the manufacture of plastics, rubber, and resins. About 90,000
workers, including those who make boats, tubs, and showers, are potentially
exposed to styrene. Health effects from exposure to styrene may involve the central
nervous system and include complaints
of headache, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, drowsiness, malaise, difficulty in
concentrating, and a feeling of intoxication. The International Agency for
Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies styrene as a potential human carcinogen. It is also known as vinylbenzene, ethenylbenzene, cinnamene, or phenylethylene.
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