Styrene

Why am I being warned about potential exposure to styrene?
  • Styrene is on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause cancer.  Exposure to styrene may increase the risk of cancer.
  • Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about exposure to listed chemicals.
What is styrene?

Styrene is an industrial chemical used to produce a number of different products, including synthetic rubbers, latex paints and coatings, and polystyrene plastics and resins.

How does exposure to styrene occur?
  • Styrene is released into indoor air from some paints and building materials, such as certain types of insulation, insulated panels, and rubber flooring.
  • Styrene is released into indoor air during the operation of some 3D printers that use filaments containing acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or high-impact polystyrene (HIPS).  It can also be released by some photocopiers and laser printers that use toners containing styrene copolymers.
  • Styrene is released into the air from some industrial facilities, including plastics and fiberglass manufacturers, and waste disposal sites.
  • Small amounts of styrene can be transferred to some food from polystyrene-based food-contact items, such as drinking cups, plates, and other containers.
  • Styrene is found in tobacco smoke.
  • During pregnancy, styrene can pass from mother to baby.
Main ways you can be exposed to styrene:
Main ways you can be exposed to styrene
How can I reduce my potential exposure to styrene?
  • Do not smoke tobacco.  Avoid breathing air that contains tobacco smoke.
  • Do not allow children to smoke tobacco products or spend time in places where tobacco is being smoked, or has been smoked.
  • If possible, limit your consumption of hot foods and beverages from polystyrene-based containers.  Do not heat foods or beverages in these containers, which include cups, bowls, and clamshell and other take-out containers.  Polystyrene containers may appear as clear or colored plastic or foam, and often carry the recycle code 6.
  • Use a well-ventilated area for printing, especially if you are using:
    • 3D or laser printers that use filaments containing styrene copolymers.
    • Photocopiers with toners containing styrene copolymers.
For more information:

General Fact Sheets and Resources

Scientific Information on Styrene

Proposition 65

Updated May 2019
Fact Sheet - Styrene

Related Chemical(s)

References
Chemical