Overview
- Researchers reported benzene in every one of 72 household gas samples from the UK, the Netherlands and Italy, with a peak of 200 ppmv measured in London.
- Measured concentrations were many times higher than North American gas, including 64 times in London, 73 times in Amsterdam and 8.5 times in Milan.
- Investigators found low-level leaks in about 40% of kitchens when stoves were off, and modeling shows about 9% of homes could exceed national exposure limits.
- Odourant levels in Britain and the Netherlands were too low to warn most people of hazardous leaks, with benzene in London able to reach about 62 ppbv before a smell would be detectable.
- The authors say ventilation can cut cooking fumes, yet only systemic fixes like higher odourisation or benzene removal can protect against steady leaks.