PHENOL

Phenol is both a manufactured chemical and a natural substance. It is a colourless-to-white solid when pure. The commercial product is a liquid. Phenol has a distinct odour that is sickeningly sweet and tarry.

You can taste and smell phenol at levels lower than those that are associated with harmful effects. Phenol evaporates more slowly than water, and a moderate amount can form a solution with water.

You may be exposed to phenol if you live near landfills or hazardous waste sites that contain phenol or near facilities manufacturing phenol.
You may be exposed to very low levels in your home because it is found in a number of consumer products, including mouthwashes, gargles, and throat lozenges.
You may be exposed to phenol if you undergo “chemical peels” to remove skin lesions with phenol-containing products or are treated for chronic pain or spasticity with injections of phenol.
Low levels of phenol are found in some foods, including smoked sausage, fried chicken, mountain cheese, and some species of fish.
Smoking or inhaling second hand smoke will expose you to phenol.
Low levels of phenol can be present in air and drinking water.