What is Dibenzofuran?

Dibenzofuran is a heterocyclic organic compound with the formula C₁₂H₈O. It consists of two benzene rings fused to a central furan ring and appears as a volatile white solid that dissolves in non-polar organic solvents. Dibenzofuran is mainly produced as a byproduct of coal tar production.

What is Dibenzofuran used for?

Dibenzofuran is primarily used in:

• Insecticides: Helps protect crops from pests.
• Chemical production: Used as a building block for other chemicals.

Sources & Routes of Exposure

Sources of Exposure

Dibenzofuran is released into the environment from:

• Burning coal, biomass, and diesel fuel
• Cigarette smoke
• Leachates from coal tar
• Incomplete propane combustion
• Industrial emissions from metal and wood manufacturing

Routes of Exposure

• Workers in coal tar and gasification industries may inhale or touch dibenzofuran.
• General public exposure occurs through breathing contaminated air, drinking water, or eating contaminated food.
• Smoking or inhaling secondhand smoke also increases exposure.

Health Effects

Acute Effects

Irritates skin, eyes, nose, and throat.

Chronic Effects

• Skin issues: Growths, rashes (worsened by sunlight), and changes in skin colour.

Cancer Hazard

• No confirmed cancer risk: Insufficient data to determine if it causes cancer.

Reproductive Hazards

• Unknown reproductive effects: No studies have tested its impact on fertility.

Safety

First Aid Measures

• Inhalation: If inhaled, move the person to fresh air. If the person is not breathing, provide artificial respiration. Seek medical attention.
• Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and plenty of water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Eye Contact: Rinse eyes immediately with water as a precaution.
• Ingestion: Do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Rinse mouth with water and consult a physician.

Exposure Controls & Personal Protection

Engineering Controls

• Ensure there are appropriate engineering controls in place. 
• Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. 
• Wash hands before breaks and at the end of the workday. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Eyes: Safety glasses with side shields conforming to EN166 standards. Use NIOSH (US) or EN 166 (EU)-approved equipment for eye protection.
• Skin: Wear nitrile gloves and chemical-resistant clothing. Inspect gloves before use and remove them properly to avoid contact with the outer surface. Dispose of gloves according to safety guidelines.
• Respiratory Protection: For nuisance exposure (low levels), use a P95 (US) or P1 (EU EN 143) particle respirator. For higher-level protection, use OV/AG/P99 (US) or ABEK-P2 (EU EN 143) respirator cartridges. Ensure all protective equipment complies with appropriate government standards, such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).

Regulations

United States

No occupational exposure limits have been established by dibenzofuran.

Australia

No occupational exposure limits have been established by dibenzofuran.