Impact of cement factory operations on air quality and human health in Ewekoro Local Government Area, South-Western Nigeria

摘要

The concentrations of pollutants associated with cement production and the effects on ambient air and community health were assessed in this study. Suspended particulates were monitored using a Negretti 1000 air sampler. Additionally, an Ogawa~TM sampler was employed to assess levels of selected gaseous pollutants at selected sites. To collect data on health status, a questionnaire survey was used for selected neighbouring communities and clinic records for industry workers. The data were analysed with the aid of percentage, variation test, correlation and regression statistics. Mean concentrations of particulate matter of 10 μ (74-338 μg/m~3) and 2.5 μ (28-116 ug/m~3) were significantly higher than permissible limits (50 μg/m~3 and 10 μg/m~3) within and around the production plant. At all sites, levels of sulphur dioxide (0.1-12ppb), nitrogen dioxide (0.1-13 ppb) and carbon monoxide (0.1-1.7 ppm) were below the allowable limits for human exposure. Analysis of variance showed significant spatial variations (p＜0.01) in the concentrations of the monitored pollutants; higher concentrations were monitored at sites in proximity to factory location. The health profile of the factory workers and some residents of neighbouring communities showed high levels of respiratory and skin infections. Enforcement of law with regard to compliance on emissions and creation of a buffer zone around the cement factory would safeguard the environment and human health.