Report on Diesel exhaust

What is diesel exhaust?

Diesel exhaust is produced when an engine burns diesel fuel. It is a complex mixture of thousands of

gases and fine particles (commonly known as soot) that contains more than 40 toxic air

contaminants. These include many known or suspected cancer-causing substances, such as benzene,

arsenic and formaldehyde. It also contains other harmful pollutants, including nitrogen oxides

(a component of urban smog).

How are people exposed to diesel exhaust?

Diesel exhaust particles and gases are suspended in the air, so exposure to this pollutant occurs

whenever a person breathes air that contains these substances. The prevalence of diesel-powered

engines makes it almost impossible to avoid exposure to diesel exhaust or its byproducts, regardless

of whether you live in a rural or urban setting. However, people living and working in urban and

industrial areas are more likely to be exposed to this pollutant. Those spending time on or near roads

and freeways, truck loading and unloading operations, operating diesel-powered machinery or

Diesel exhaust contains more than 40 toxic air contaminants

working near diesel equipment face exposure to higher levels of diesel exhaust and face higher health

risks.