Perceived BTEX Exposure and Occupational Safety Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices among Petrol Station Attendants in Islamabad, Pakistan

Introduction: Petroleum-derived volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are an emerging source of major environmental and occupational health hazards. In Pakistan, petrol pump attendants are continuously exposed, yet limited data exist regarding exposure levels as well as safety behaviors.

Objective: To assess the self reported BTEX exposure levels among petrol station attendants in Islamabad, Pakistan, and to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and safety behaviors to prevent human induced occupational and environmental health risks.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among male attendants (n=30) working in petrol stations in Islamabad, Pakistan (September–October 2025). Data were collected through convenient sampling using a bilingual semi structured questionnaire with questions regarding sociodemographic variables, exposure indicators, and KAP variables. A composite “Self-Reported Exposure Index” (score 0–12) quantified BTEX exposure which was categorized as low (0–3), moderate (4–7), and high (8–12). Descriptive statistics were performed using SPSS.

Results: More than half (53%) of participants reported high exposure scores to BTEX. A very high proportion of attendants reported frequent symptoms of headache (76.7%), cough (66.7%), and dizziness (60%). A high proportion of attendants (86.7%) recognized glove use as protective; however, less than half (43.3%) of the participants consistently wore them. Positive attitudes toward safety behaviors were reported by a very high proportion of participants (97%); however, they reported limited institutional support (40%) towards safety practices of employees.

Conclusion: The study reported high exposure of BTEX among petrol pump attendants. They were aware of the safety practices; however, they were still not following occupational safety practices to protect themselves and their environment from the hazards of VOCs. Strict policies should be made to enhance implementation of occupational and environmental safety practices in petrol pumps.