Sources and Potential Exposure of Dibenzofuran
Occupational exposure may occur through inhalation and dermal contact, particularly at sites engaged in combustion/carbonization processes, such as coal tar and coal gasification operations. (1) Dibenzofuran is released to the ambient air from combustion sources. It may be found in coke dust, grate ash, fly ash, and flame soot. The general public may be exposed to dibenzofuran through the inhalation of contaminated air or through the consumption of contaminated drinking water or food. (1,2) Dibenzofuran has been identified in tobacco smoke. (1) Dibenzofuran has been listed as a pollutant of concern to EPA's Great Waters Program due to its persistence in the environment, potential to bioaccumulate, and toxicity to humans and the environment.