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Natural gas coming out of the well is mostly methane and ethane. There may be propane and butane given off in lesser amounts. These chemicals do not generally pose a health problems. The most harmful component in natural gas is hydrogen sulfide. It appears that the Macondo well is not producing hydrogen sulfide, or at least not at levels considered harmful to health.
However, as indicated on the link, the EPA is concerned about gases that can be given off as a result of the evaporation of the oil spill and the dispersants that have been added to the oil spill. These compounds, generally grouped as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), include benzene, and can be harmful in small quantities.
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