What are Organic Solvents?

Solvents are substances that are capable of dissolving or dispersing one or more other substances. Organic solvents are carbon-based solvents (i.e., they contain carbon in their molecular structure).  Millions of U.S. workers are exposed to organic solvents that are used in such products as paints, varnishes, lacquers, adhesives, glues, and degreasing/cleaning agents, and in the production of dyes, polymers, plastics, textiles, printing inks, agricultural products, and pharmaceuticals.

Many individual organic solvents are recognized by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as carcinogens (e.g., benzene, carbon tetrachloride, trichloroethylene), reproductive hazards (e.g., 2-ethoxyethanol, 2-methoxyethanol, methyl chloride), and neurotoxins (e.g., n-hexane, tetrachloroethylene, toluene).  Mixtures of organic solvents such as those found in mineral spirits, paint thinners, floor strippers, lubricants, print roller cleaners and rubber solvents are also known to cause certain cancers including lymphoma and leukemia. You might be surprised to learn that many household and commercial solvent products contain mixtures of organic solvents as well as benzene.

People who work with or around such chemicals are at risk for being exposed to the vapors released into the air when the products are used and getting the chemicals on their skin.  This type of exposure may put the person at risk for developing lymphoma and leukemia years after exposure.

Legal Questions

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) and think it may be caused by toxic exposure to organic solvents like benzene, and you have legal questions or require legal assistance, contact Paul & Hanley LLP.

Our firm has an outstanding track record of success in cases across the country, and our lawyers are known for their honesty, integrity and compassion. We've built our reputation on toxic tort litigation representing individuals diagnosed with NHL, mesothelioma and other serious diseases with dignity and respect.

We handle a select number of cases at a time and represent workers and families with the extra special attention required for the best possible outcome in each case. We understand your case is unique, so we take the time to get to know you and your family.  Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. We'll discuss your specific case and give you honest answers to your important questions. Our toll free telephone number is 800 933-2244.  We look forward to helping you.