Health Risk Assessment Due to Indoor Air Pollution in Air Conditioning Manufacturing Plants

Abstract

The interplay between workplace air quality and the well-being and productivity of industrial personnel is of paramount importance. This research was undertaken to evaluate the influence of air pollutants on health outcomes and comfort levels within air conditioning manufacturing facilities. A systematic field survey measured indoor levels of carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). It was observed that the mean concentrations of CO, CO2, and NOx were compliant with acceptable standards. In contrast, PM10 and PM2.5 levels frequently surpassed acceptable thresholds, potentially compromising respiratory health and necessitating the implementation of enhanced protective measures, including the mandatory use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly respiratory protection. Hazard Quotient (HQ) assessments yielded values ranging from 0.068 to 0.115 for PM10, 0.007 to 0.008 for NO2, 0.026 to 0.103 for CO, and 0.100 to 0.104 for CO2, all of which were below the threshold of one, suggesting an absence of immediate health risks. However, the average HQ values suggested a hierarchical order of potential impact with CO2 being the highest, followed by PM10, CO, and NO2. The Health Index (HI) values varied across different plant sections, with the highest recorded in cutting and drilling areas (0.3152) and the lowest outside the plant (0.1150). Based on the health risk calculations, the respiratory system was identified as the most vulnerable, followed by the cardiovascular and nervous systems, with eye irritation as a lesser concern. The findings underscore the imperative for continuous air quality monitoring and the establishment of comprehensive awareness programs, alongside robust emergency and evacuation protocols, to mitigate health risks. The study advocates for the integration of occupational health considerations into industrial management strategies and local regulatory policies, emphasizing the critical role of air quality management in the maintenance of worker health and safety in manufacturing settings.