Occupational exposure to organic solvents: effects on human reproduction

It is estimated that half a million workers in the Netherlands are regularly exposed to organic solvents. Some examples of well-known solvents are toluene, styrene, xylene, benzene and turpentine. These are widely used for degreasing and diluting, and are found in such products as ordinary paints, car paints, stains, and glues. Solvents evaporate, so those who work with these products tend to inhale them.
It is known for a long time that inhaling organic solvent fumes may impair people’s health. In recent years, occupational exposure to these solvents has been linked to various effects.