Exposure of Dust on Road Maintenance/Cleaning Workers

(1)

Exposure of Dust on Road Maintenance/Cleaning Workers

Waqas Arshad

Student Number: 300309

Supervisor: Pertti Pasanen

Environmental Health & Technology University of Eastern Finland

June 2020

(2)

ABSTRACT

Road clearing is a normal practice in numerous urban communities to tidy up debris and sediments and residue from street surface for aesthetical reasons just as for counteractive action of contamination of the road condition. Road sweepers play significant roles in ecological wellbeing by keeping up the neatness of the streets and these people are presented to numerous hazards. Even short term exposure to dust may cause prompt and serious harm, incessant or persistent exposure for a considerable length of time or years may bring about perpetual diseases or symptoms. As this problem is escalating day by day, so it should be eradicated from the surrounding in order to maintain a healthy environment outside. The first step towards this milestone is to estimate the amount of contaminants such as aerosols and particulate matter that are found embedded into the atmosphere. In order to calculate the concentration of inhalable dust, different number of samples were gathered for measurement of inhalable dust in various situations/locations using three methods/techniques such as IOM sampling head, sampling using online particle monitors (e.g. Dust Track and Side Pack). The results are gathered from various situations which includes leaf blowing on roadsides, car parking halls, cleaning of streets and building lots, parking lots cleaning and cleaning of main roads. All values of concentration calculated from IOM sampler using the formula were found to be within prescribed limits. The average, minimum and maximum values obtained by on-line particle monitors are also found to be within prescribed threshold limit values. This pilot scale study was conducted to interoperate and assess dust exposure level in road cleaning and brushing workers in specific area of Kuopio, Finland which in future, can serve as a baseline data for future studies on the related topics.

(3)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

All praise and thanks to Allah Almighty, who is the source of all knowledge and wisdom endowed to mankind and to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), who showed us the right path and light of knowledge to humanity as a whole.

I would like to express my serious gratitude to the Supervisor, Mr. Pertti Pasanen. His wide knowledge and logical way of thinking have been a great value for us. His understanding, encouraging and personal guidance have provided a good basis for this project. Further the financial assistance by the Faculty of Science and Forestry, University of Eastern Finland is highly acknowledged.

(4)

Abbreviations and Definitions

ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS

ISO International Organization for Standardization TLV Threshold limit value

PNOS Particular Not Otherwise Specified

ACGIH American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists PM Particulate Matter

FVC Forced vital capacity

FEV1 Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second PEFR Peak Expiratory Flow Rate

FEF Forced Expiratory Flow

COPD Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease IOM Institute of Occupational Medicine USA United States of America

LOG Logarithm

USB Universal Serial Bus

OLED Organic Light-Emitting Diode VAC Volts Alternating Current AC Alternating Current DPM Diesel Particulate Matter.

(5)

Abbreviations and Definitions

Definitions:

In this document, unless explained otherwise:

- Mucociliary Clearance means the essential inborn resistance system of the lung. The utilitarian segments are the defensive mucous layer, the aviation route surface fluid layer, and the cilia on the outside of ciliated cells.

- Pulmonary ventilation means the procedure of air streaming into the lungs during motivation (inward breath) and out of the lungs during lapse (exhalation). Wind currents as a result of weight contrasts between the climate and the gases inside the lungs.

(6)

Contents

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL

Road clearing is a normal practice in numerous urban communities to tidy up debris and sediments and residue from street surface for aesthetical reasons just as for counteractive action of contamination of the road condition. Be that as it may, road clearing for the most part scatters street dust into the air and is believed to expose the encompassing population. Residue is formed from airborne particle whose size for the most part runs from 1-100 µm.(ISO, 1995)

Everybody is exposed to dust in some structure or other. The human body has different defense functions to manage the dust we take in, however sometimes it can progress toward becoming overpowered if dust particles are little enough or in adequate numbers.

Road sweepers play significant roles in ecological wellbeing by keeping up the neatness of the streets and these people are presented to numerous dangers. Lamentably, the financial status and educational status of road sweepers are low, and less consideration is paid to their health (Kumie et al., 2017). Dust incorporates the most regularly found unsafe particles in the environment, and road sweepers are presented to a blend of soil, sand and rock dust particles, vehicle dust, bio mist concentrates and plant particles.

(Miguel et al, 1999)

During pulmonary ventilation, minor particles are stored in the lower portions of the respiratory framework, and they become difficult to reach to oneself cleansing of the body, for example, mucociliary clearance. The inward breath of outer materials triggers the lungs to respond in various ways, including airway route disturbance, asthma compounding, inflammatory responses and fibrosis.(Johncy SSST, 2014)

While short term exposure to dust may cause prompt and serious harm, incessant or persistent exposure for a considerable length of time or years may bring about perpetual diseases or wounds. In certain investigations, sniffling, coughing, eye disturbance, lung tissue swelling, asthma and throat contaminations were increasingly pervasive among people exposed to occupational dust. In addition, the indications related with disabled lung capacity may prompt to occupational related lung sicknesses.(Smilee Johncy S, 2013)

(10)

2

Pneumonic illnesses because of occupational exposure are generally identified with dust inward breath and the deposition of inhaled particles, contingent upon the size, physical properties and substance properties of the airborne, recurrence and duration of exposure, and individual reaction to dust particles in the lungs.(Nku C, 2005).

(11)

3

2 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 GENERAL

In developing nations, dust in the boulevards or streets assumes a significant job in ecological contamination (Nku et al., 2005). Dust is raised during clearing with floor brushes and by vehicular movement, and through other human activities. Road sweepers are at a danger of exposure to complex blends of contaminations, for example, soil, dust, bioaerosols of natural cause like dusts, natural materials from plants, dust which results from vehicular movements and outflow, which make them helpless to occupational lung illness. Sweepers are inclined to be influenced by wellbeing risks during their word related exercises(Marziale, 1989). Lungs, by righteousness of their immediate contact with the environmental air, are normally first to manage the surge of air contaminants. (Morgan & Seaton, 1975).

2.2 ACUTE LUNG FUNCTION RESPONSE TO DUST IN ROAD CLEANING WORKERS

The inward breath of surrounding particles and their settlement in the lung, can interact with lung cells and may have unfavorable impacts. These connections in the end lead to the release of different cytokines, causing inflammatory response and tissue damage.

(Kasper et al.)

Lung illnesses which result from work related exposure are in all likelihood brought about by the inward breath of dust and settlement of particles in lungs. The determination of site where deposition take place by various variables like the size, chemical and physical qualities of the airborne and frequency and duration of exposure, alongside on the response of the host towards inhalation of particles (Garshick, et al., 1996). Decrease in lung capacities has been accounted for in cotton workers, coal excavators, grain and flour plant workers and workers who are exposed to tobacco dust, grain residue and power dust. (Garshick et al., 1996)

2.3 DUST EXPOSURE LEVELS IN STREET SWEEPERS

The streamlined size of a residue molecule is a significant factor that decides its conduct in all around air. Bigger particles settle on the ground surface due to their weight that is drawn by gravity. The littler particles (aerodynamic diameter <10 µm), in any case, stay suspended in the air for long time (Gardiner & Harrington, 2008) and may therefore

(12)

4

be breathed in. The threshold limit values (TLV) for all dust (additionally signified as disturbance residue or particulates not otherwise specified (PNOS), by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists American (ACGIH), is 10 mg/m³ for 8-hours exposure. The assorted streamlined distance across of a residue permits focusing on various pieces of the lung for disposition. Bigger residue particles (>10µm) store in the upper airway routes and aggravate the nose, eye, and throat, while littler particles (<10µm) are probably going to be deposited further in the airways. As the exploration in the relationship between presentation to dust particles and respiratory disease is propelling, all out dust is currently frequently supplanted by inhalable (<100 μm), thoracic (<10μm), and respirable fractions(<4 μm) of dust(ACGIH, 2006)

Workers cleaning the roads have great exposure to dust particles. (Nku et al., 2005) One of the studies carried out in Nigeria shows more respirable dust levels in the workers working in the streets then control workers (0.194 + 0.002mg/m³Vs. 0.015+

0.003mg/m³) (Nku et al., 2005). 2 Thus exposure to road dust in excessive can cause serious respiration health risks due to the inhalation of dust particles (Smilee Johncy et al.,, 2013) moreover there are not much studies that investigates exposure of dust on road cleaners, there are extensive number of studies related to different occupations that shows respiratory and lung disorders due to exposure to excessive dust. (Wang et al., 2003)

A huge concentration of particulates has been seen during winter and spring months with continual snowflake exposure .Snowflake exposure leads to production of dust as is hazardous. When the snow containing particulates melts out, dryness is created on the surface of roads and a proportion of dust is resuspended by traffic. Thus, springtime suspended particles become one of the major problems in Finland causing possibility of adverse health effects such as lungs cancer due to increased PM10 concentration which might support dominant role of sanding material in dust. Dust from asphalt aggregate caused by grinding effect under the tyres incline up the pavement wear leading to sandpaper effect. Moreover, with studded tyres more PM10 dust was formed than by winter tyres without studs. Residue emanations and the sandpaper impact were reliant on various perspectives, for example, the mechanical and mineralogical properties of both the sanding and asphalt totals, the measure of footing sand utilized, the size circulation of the sand grains just as the sort of tyres. (Kupiainen, Tervahattu,

& Räisänen, 2003)

(13)

5

2.4 WORK RELATED RESPIRATORY DISORDERS

Respiratory sicknesses are one of the principle morbidities to which road sweepers are presented because of inhalation of street dust. The issue is ascending in developing nations because of absence of word related security and wellbeing measures. Aggregate and long term exposure presentation to dust negatively influences parameters of lung function. This investigation expects to gauge and analyze the lung capacities and respiratory indisposition among a number of road sweepers and a correlation group of office laborers in Abbasia region, Cairo, Egypt. Moreover, Perilous contact to dust during road clearing and sweeping can cause respiratory side effects, for example, cough as a symptom related to chronic bronchitis and a substantial decrease in pulmonary function. It is suggested that occupational health services ought to give and train road sweepers to utilize defensive equipment as face masks to diminish the danger of exposure to street dust. Occasional clinical assessment ought to be accomplished for early recognition of respiratory weaknesses. (Mostafa, Abdel-Hamid, & AlBagoury, 2015)

The study was carried out for street sweepers of Chandrapur city of India. It comprised of examination of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate values in sweepers as well as control group to compare likelihood of hazards between them. Environmental and occupational hazards leading to musculoskeletal ailments and allergies(100%), breathing harms (95%), dermatological difficulties (90%), cough and cold (75%), nuisance (75%) , asthma and bronchitis lungs (65%), hearing complaint (50%), malaria and typhoid (25%), stomach problems (15%) were observed due to their continuous exposure during and after completion of work. To lessen work related threats in sweepers, they should be made alarm and mindful of potential health risk emerging from their work. Decrease in exposure and utilization of individual defensive types of gear ought to be empowered. (Priyanka et al,. 2017)

2.5 LUNG FUNCTION IMPAIRMENT DUE TO DUST

Incessant inward breath of residue obstructs lung function and may cause respiratory side effects. An investigation of lung function, oxygen saturation and indicator was encompassed among female road sweepers and their control crews in Calabar, Nigeria.

Respirable dust levels in the test locales was 0.194±0.002 mg/m³ and it was essentially higher (P<0.001) than in controlled destinations which was 0.015±0.003 mg/m³. Be

(14)

6

that as it may, there was likewise a higher predominance of back agony, chest torment, Catarrh and sneezing among the road sweepers than in their control. Lung capacity esteems, in particular; FVC, FEV1, FEV1% and PEFR were not fundamentally unique in the two gatherings and were like the typical values revealed for females by other examiners. It has been concluded that road clearing without prudent steps for example, the wearing of facemasks, watering of avenues what is more, arrangement of other defensive gadgets may incline to respiratory and non-respiratory side effects. (Nku et al., 2005)

The pneumonic capacities and furthermore the connection between the span of introduction to dust and lung function parameters were assessed in female sweepers.

The values of FVC, FEV1, PEFR and FEF200-1200 were considerably declined (p <

0.01) in sweepers as compared with their matched controls just as straight forwardly corresponding disability of their lung function parameters to the span of introduction.

On the off chance that the variations from the norm are identified early and if further introduction to residue is maintained at strategic distance then irreversible infections might be avoided. It is proposed that defensive measures, for example, long floor brushes and fitting respiratory defensive equipment, ought to be given to laborers occupied with clearing; the laborers ought to experience occasional spirometry tests.

Moreover, Laborers might be restricted to three or four days of clearing for each week.

Also, watering the road preceding clearing will impressively decrease the dust exposure.(Johncy et al,. 2014)

The examination completed to research whether roadside residue is a reason for air flow hindrance among sweepers and the role of spirometry in its preclinical diagnosis. Two groups (both sexes having age ranging from 30-60 years) comprising of non-smoking sweepers (Group A) and healthy non-smokers (Group B), who were exposed to roadside dust for 8-12 hours a day for Capital Development Authority of Islamabad were under study. Mean forced expiratory volume in 1 second was 66 ± 1.67 liters in Group A and 85 ± 0.85 liters in Group B (P, 0.05), a distinction of 19%, The constrained mid expiratory stream was 41% lower in Group A than in Group B (P, 0.0001). The example of pneumonic capacity impediment was demonstrated to be corresponding to the span of presentation to dust brought about by clearing. It was concluded that Long and proceeded inward breath of nonindustrial residue is a significant factor in the

(15)

7

development of the side effects of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) among sweepers as appeared in their obstructive spirometric designs. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that spirometry is the absolute most significant just as the easiest, least expensive, and noninvasive procedure supporting in the diagnosis of preclinical cases before the improvement of sweeper's lung sickness. (Anwar et al., 2013)

2.6 LUNG FUNCTION IMPAIRMENT DUE TO DUST

The aim of this study is to interoperate and assess dust exposure level in road cleaning and brushing workers in specific area of Kuopio, Finland. Although this study or work is just kind of pilot study, and the results from this study will be helpful to create awareness to road cleaning workers and also somehow to policy makers. Moreover, this study will or can serve as a baseline data for future studies on the related topics.

(16)

8

3 MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 GENERAL

This chapter gives a brief description of sampling equipment used and methodology to be followed to achieve concentration of inhalable dust in sweepers and workers. It also includes procedure for use and calibration of sampler used for inhalable dust collection (IOM Sampler).

In this study, we will assess exposure of labor to dusts, fumes and fibres in various situations. By size dust, fumes and fibres vary in size depending upon their composition. Dust contains solid particles >5µm, fumes contains condensed vapors and usually bears the size of <0.05µm. fibres whereas, are thread-like structures having length more than three times greater than their width.

Keeping in view sizes of various particles mentioned above, the sampling head basically involved in the performance for the measurement of level of exposure to workers in different sampling locations is IOM sampling head or IOM sampling device.

3.2 STUDY PARAMETERS

Environmental conditions were measured during the dust sampling. The parameters were:

i. Temperature ii. Relative humidity iii. Wind Speed

3.3 SAMPLING EQUIPMENT

The sampling equipment used in carrying out the sampling activities in worker’s exposure area includes IOM sampler, Side Pack and Dust track.

3.3.1 IOM Sampler

Basically, the name IOM came from the developer, the UK Institute of Occupational Medicine.

Various studies were undertaken in past using different samplers, out of all IOM sampler has shown the best results for the inhalable dust criteria to ISO under wide range of working conditions and it is considered to be the best method of inhalable dust sample assessment nowadays. IOM sampler and its’ use consists of:

• A calibration adapter for the IOM

• Sampling cassettes and transport clips

(17)

9

• Constant flow personal sampling pump, capable of a flow rate of 2L/min

• Calibrator such as a piston calibrator or bubble meter

• Flow adjusting screw driver

• Tube to connect pump to sampler

• Disposable gloves

The whole body of the IOM sampling head basically comprises of the following components as shown in the following figure.

• Cassette cover/Cover cap

• O-ring

• Front cover

• Cassette Top/Cassette front

• Filter paper- We used filter mixed cellulose esters membrane- filter type – 0.8µm AAWP (made in Ireland) for sampling

• Cassette rare/cassette bottom, in which filter paper is adjusted

• Housing body of sampler, where all the components are fitted.

• Sampling trains: The sampling device, sample pump and filter collectively when connected together give rise to a train like structure known as sampling train.

Figure 3.1: IOM Sampler Figure 3.2: Components of IOM Sampler

(18)

10

3.3.1.1 Procedure of sampling using IOM sampler

The procedure adopted for sampling is explained as follows:

a) Weighing of filter

Weighing was performed in a weighing room in which the temperature (°C) and humidity (%) were controlled. All weighing was carried out with a Mettler–Toledo ME22 balance (Greifensee, Switzerland), with a resolution of 1 µg. At the beginning of each weighing session the balance was calibrated using a 100 mg weight supplied by the manufacturer. During the sessions, the balance was tared when necessary. In order to reduce the static electrical charge on the filter or cassette being weighed, a radioactive α-source [0.5 mCi ²¹⁰Po, NRD Inc., Grand Island (NY), USA] was placed above the weighing pan. Continue weighing filter until the difference between two consecutive reading comes out to be <0.002.

b) Steps:

As we have to measure inhalable dust exposure, so we connected sampling train with worker to measure the content of inhalable dust. The procedure adopted for sampling of inhalable dust is given below: I,

1. Put on a pair of gloves, without using skin oils, lotions, hand sanitizers since they can contaminate samples

2. Removed the face plate of IOM sampler and examined the inside the covering is intact 3. Removed the cassette from its transport clip and put the clip back in the same bag for later, and also labelled the bag of the IOM sampling head to ensure cassettes are not mixed up after sampling as it is essential after sampling that of the transport clip or bag has a barcode, the sample cassette must be matched back to the correct barcode.

4. Removed the protected cap and placed the cassette into the IOM sampler and replaced the face plate

5. Screwed it down firmly for secure seal

6. Clipped the sampling pump securely on to the belt of the employee, minimizing interference with work activities. It is better to clamp IOM Sampler near the employee breathing zone. After clamping, turned on the pump noting the start time. Once the sampling is complete, turned off the pump and recorded the end time. Immediately capped the IOM sampler remove the pump and sampler from the individual and transported it to clean area. Using new gloves between samples to avoid cross

(19)

11

contamination. Opened the face plate of the sampler. Obtained the correct original barcoded transport clip for that cassette and returned it to the original clip and bag.

7. Note: For gravimetric, total inhalable particulate analysis in a low-dust environment, maximize the total air volume, sampling up to a full working shift. For active pharmaceutical ingredients or APIs and other sensitive tests, a lower air volume may suffice.

c) Calibration Procedure:

Basically, it is good to select a representative sampler for the post calibration, but make sure that it is not used to collect the sample. We adopted following procedure for calibration: I,

1. Allowed the pump to run for ten minutes before start and inserted the IOM sampler through the hinged bracket of the adopter with the inner link of the sampler against the adopter firm ring.

2. Clamped the IOM sampler in place with the clamping screws

3. One end of the IOM Sampler was connected to the pump and the other end with soap calibrator the mini BUCK CALLIBRATOR) outlet with a piece of flexible tubing.

4. After this, I removed the dust cap from the sampler outlet and connect the sampler outlet to the sampling pump and soap calibrator.

5. TURNED ON the pump and soap calibrator then noted at least five readings of the flow rate from soap calibrator. The flow rate carried forward for the pump was the average of all the readings taken before. When finished, TURNED OFF the pump. Disconnected the IOM cassette and adopter and set it aside for field study

6. Again, installed a new IOM cassette into an IOM sampler body and collected a new sample at various sampling location selected for field study

(20)

12

Figure 3.3: Buck Calibrator (soap calibrator) d) Post Calibration Procedure:

To finish, use the calibration adopter, the flow rate of the pump. Post calibration flow rate should be within 5% of the pre-calibration. If not, assess whether the variance can still meet your data objectives or if it’s better to resample. Complete the laboratory request form, also called a chain of custody. Package your shipment for laboratory, following any required shipping specifications for your analyses.

e) Precautions:

1. If requesting gravimetric analyses for total inhalable dust, make sure to order Pre- weight media

2. Pre-weighed IOM cassettes are made to order and should be used ASAP (<30 days after pre-weighing)

3. A field blank is always recommended, if you are requesting gravimetric dust analysis 4. Always use disposable gloves when handling IOM sampling cassettes

5. Return all IOM cassettes to the laboratory, used or not used, to avoid replacement charges.

(21)

13

3.3.2 Side Pack

Side pack-Personal Aerosol Monitor AM 520 is battery-powered, light-dispersing photometer in which information is logged and gives centralization of vaporized particles including our objective for example PM2.5 fixation inside the breathing territory of specialist. (Anon., n.d.)

Recently planned bay conditioners increment the mass focus capacity and give size portion slice focuses to PM10, PM4 (Respirable), PM5 (China Respirable), PM2.5 , PM1 and 0.8 μm Diesel Particulate Matter (DPM). This screen is the ideal answer for continuous, individual vaporized examining in an assortment of work environment conditions, including general industry, foundries, building locales, concoction plants, processing plants, petrochemical, force and utilities, transportation, aviation, sea, kept spaces and mining.¹

Figure 3.4: Side Pack Personal Aerosol Monitor AM 520 3.3.2.1 Features of Side Pack Aerosol Monitor

Following features are given by purchaser of the

1 (Manufacturer: TSI Dust Monitors)

(22)

14

Side Pack Aerosol Monitor.

1) Robust impactors for higher mass concentration range 2) Audible and visual alarms

3) 0.8 μm DPM impactor

4) PM5 China respirable size fraction impactor 5) High capacity battery

6) Color OLED display

7) Real-time mass concentration measurement and data logging for "in-the-field" data analysis

8) Push button menu operation or programmable through newly improved TrakPro™ v5 Software

9) User-selectable alarm levels to alert workers to high aerosol concentrations

10) Newly designed robust impactors enable reliable size fraction measurements at higher aerosol concentrations over longer run times

The kit includes:

1) Soft single-unit carrying case 2) 100-240 VAC power supply 3) USB cable

4) Impactor kit

5) Dorr-Oliver Cyclone kit 6) DPM cyclone kit

7) Screwdriver 8) Micro USB cable 9) Zero filter

10) Sample tube

11) Calibration certificate 12) User guide

13) Quick reference card 3.3.3 Dust Trak

The Model 8520 Dust Trak Aerosol Monitor has four methods of activity overview LOG 1, LOG 2 and LOG 3. At the point when the Dust Trak Monitor is first turned on, it will be in review mode, which is utilized to show continuous readings and to decide measurements, for example, normal, least and most extreme readings. LOG 1 mode is

(23)

15

utilized to record singular information focuses for later investigation utilizing a fixed convention. LOG 2 and LOG 3 modes have a client characterized convention, arrangement utilizing trak expert TM information investigation programming. Trak Pro programming is utilized for examination of information taken in any of the three LOG modes, however can't be utilized on tests taken in review mode.²

3.3.3.1 Dust Trak aerosol monitor keypad functions

When squeezing the keys on front board the Dust Trak screen signals to affirm the capacity. On the off chance that you press a key and the Dust Trak screen doesn't signal, the Dust Trak screen doesn't permit that work during the choosing testing mode 3.3.3.2 Parts identification for the DUST TRAK Aerosol Monitor

Following figure recognizes the pieces of Model 8520 Dust Trak Aerosol Monitor I became familiar with these components before proceeding.

1. Display 2. Keypad 3. Battery Cover

4. Battery Cover Thumb Screw 5. Data Port

6. Display/Keypad Lockout Switch 7. External Power Socket

8. Sample Inlet Nozzle And Port 9. Flow Adjustment Screw

10. Analog Output/Alarm Connector 11. Cyclone Holder Clip

12. Exhaust Port

2 (Manufacturer: TSI Dust Monitors)

(24)

16

Figure 3.5: Top and Front of the Dust Trak Monitor 3.3.3.3 Dust Trak Aerosol Monitor Accessories

Accessories for Dust Trak aerosol monitor includes the following and are shown in given figure 3.6.

1. Zero filter 2. Flow meter 3. Wrist strap

4. 2.5 µm inlet nozzle 5. 1 µm inlet nozzle 6. Impactor plate 7. Grease

8. Computer cable 9. AC adapter 10. Cyclone

11. 25-pin to 9-pin adapter 12. Shoulder strap

(25)

17

13. Sample tube cleaning brush 14. Sample tube removal tool 15. Internal filter elements 16. Analog/alarm cable

Figure 3.6: Dust Trak Aerosol Monitor Accessories 3.4 METHODOLOGY ADOPTED FOR CALCULATIONS 3.4.1 Parameters considered during sampling:

The parameters that were rendered important for consideration, are observed for given time period when sampling was done and given in detail in table 4.2

3.4.2 Calculations of inhalable dust using IOM Sampler:

Keeping in view all the necessary parameters given below, concentration of inhalable dust (𝐶_𝑚) has been calculated using following formula,

𝑪_𝒎 = (𝑴_𝒇− 𝑴_𝒊) − (𝑩_𝒇− 𝑩_𝒊) 𝑽

where;

Mf = Final mass of filter Mi = Initial Mass of filter Bf = Final Mass of blank filter

(26)

18

Bi = Initial Mass of blank filter

V = Volume, which can be calculated using following formula;

𝑽 = 𝑸 × 𝒕 where;

Q = Flow rate of the pump t = sampling time

(27)

19

Figure 3.1: Google Earth Map showing Sampling Locations (pinned for reference)

(28)

20

4 RESULTS

4.1 GENERAL

This chapter give the details about the results against the concentration of inhalable dust measured in sweepers and workers. In everyday life, we experience dust in the atmosphere as a result of natural and anthropogenic activities. Anthropogenic activities may include products thrown as rubbish or garbage into air, land and water. I gathered number of samples for measurement of inhalable dust in various situations/locations using three methods/techniques such as IOM sampling head, sampling using Dust Trak and Side Pack.

The results are gathered from following situations:

1) Leaf blowing on roadsides 2) Car parking halls

3) Cleaning of streets and building lots 4) Parking lots cleaning

5) Cleaning of main roads

4.2 RESULTS OF IOM SAMPLER

Table 4.1: Picture Gallery of Sampling

(29)

21

1. Cleaning of streets and building lots

2. Car Parking Halls

3. Cleaning of leaves on roadsides

(30)

22

Table 4.1:Results of Concentration of Inhalable Dust calculated using IOM Sampler Category

of Sampling

Sample Location

Final mass of filter

Initial mass of

filter

Diff. of Masses of filter

Final mass of blank

filter

Initial mass of

blank filter

Diff. of Blank Masses

Flow rate of pump

Flow Rate of

pump

Time Volume of sample

Results:

Conc. of inhalable dust

Threshold limit value (TLV)

Mf (mg) Mi (mg) ΔM (mg)=

Mf - Mi

Bf (mg) Bi (mg) ΔB(mg)=

Bf - Bi

Δ(mg)=

ΔM-ΔB L/min m³/min T

(min) V(m³) C (mg/m3) (mg/m3) Case 1:

Leaf blowing

on roadsides

Puijonkatu 4719.049 4718.984 0.065 4413.864 4413.833 0.031 0.034 1.99 0.00199 81 0.16119 0.210931199 10 Kesaranta 4533.705 4533.673 0.032 4413.864 4413.833 0.031 0.001 2.01 0.00201 31 0.06231 0.016048788 10 Case 2:

Car Parking

halls

Center Tori

Parking place - I 4782.496 4782.307 0.189 4561.046 4561.175 -0.129 0.318 1.99 0.00199 89 0.17711 0.556949686 10 Center Tori

Parking place – II

4456.357 4456.352 0.005 4561.046 4561.175 -0.129 0.134 1.99 0.00199 89 0.17711 1.321716418 10 Case 3:

Cleaning of streets

and building

lots

Kuopiohalli

site-I 4817.242 4816.963 0.279 4510.437 4510.426 0.011 0.268 2 0.002 74 0.148 1.810810811 10

Kuopiohalli

site-II 4700.64 4700.247 0.393 4510.437 4510.426 0.011 0.382 2 0.002 74 0.148 2.581081081 10

Case 4:

Lots Cleaning

Taivanpakontie

Päiväkoti 4535.602 4534.143 1.459 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 1.436 1.99 0.00199 107 0.21293 6.744000376 10 Paivarannan

koulu 4624.962 4623.241 1.721 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 1.698 1.99 0.00199 107 0.21293 7.974451698 10 Street Sweeper-

Niiralan koulu

Kasarmikatu 4786.357 4785.617 0.74 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 0.717 2 0.002 131 0.262 2.736641221 10

Case 5:

Cleaning of main

roads

Truck Driver-

Rovastinkatu 4550.522 4550.364 0.158 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 0.135 1.98 0.00198 243 0.48114 0.280583614 10 Road Brusher-

Rovastinkatu 4718.801 4718.73 0.071 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 0.048 2 0.002 179 0.358 0.134078212 10

Truck Driver-

Rypysuontie 4781.531 4781.505 0.026 4510.449 4510.426 0.023 0.003 2.01 0.00201 200 0.402 0.007462687 10

(31)

23

4.3 RESULTS OF SIDE PACK & DUST TRAK:

The Side Pack was used to monitor the concentration of inhalable dust. The dust trak was used to monitor was used to monitor the concentration of inhalable dust. The maximum, minimum and average value was recorded at various locations for each case which are being shown in the following table.

4.3.1 Tabular representation of results from Dust Trak & Side Pack:

Table 4.5: Results of inhalable dust taken from Dust Track:

Cases Number of Samples

Locations Maximum Value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Average value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Minimum Value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Threshold limit value (mg/m³) Cleaning

of streets and Building lots

Sample 1

Kuopiohalli site-I

6.59 0.32 -0.06 10

Sample 2

Kuopiohalli site-II

3.18 0.63 0.0 10

Parking lots cleaning

Sample 1

Taivaanpakontie päiväkoti

0.18 0.03 -0.03 10

Sample 2

Päivärannan koulu

0.10 0.02 -0.01 10

Sample 3

Street Sweeper- Niiralan koulu

- - - 10

Table 4.4: Results of inhalable dust taken from Side Pack:

Cases Number of Samples

Locations Maximum Value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Average value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Minimum Value of inhalable dust (mg/m³)

Threshold limit value (mg/m³)

Cleaning of streets and building lots

Sample 1 Kuopiohalli site- I

0.44 0.02 0.002 10

Sample 2 Kuopiohalli site- II

0.33 0.07 0.0 10

Parking lots cleaning

Sample 1 Taivanpakontie päiväkoti

0.70 0.15 0.004 10

Sample 2 Paivarannan koulu

4.62 0.34 0.0 10

Sample 3 Street Sweeper- Niiralan koulu Kasarmikatu

0.38 0.06 0.002 10

(32)

24

Cleaning of main roads

Sample 1 Truck Driver- rovastinkatu

0.64 0.06 0.03 10

Sample 2 Road Brusher- Rovastinkatu Sample 3 Truck Driver- Rypysuontie

0.25 0.05 0.03 10

4.3.2 Graphical representation of results of concentration of inhalable dust recorded from Side Pack:

Graph No: 1

Concentration of PM2.5 at Kuopiohalli site-I while Cleaning of Roads and Streets for which;

Average value: 0.026 mg/m3 Maximum value: 0.444 mg/m3 Minimum Value: 0.002 mg/m3

Graph No: 2

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5

10:33:24 10:35:54 10:38:24 10:40:54 10:43:24 10:45:54 10:48:24 10:50:54 10:53:24 10:55:54 10:58:24 11:00:54 11:03:24 11:05:54 11:08:24 11:10:54 11:13:24 11:15:54 11:18:24 11:20:54 11:23:24 11:25:54 11:28:24 11:30:54 11:33:24 11:35:54 11:38:24 11:40:54 11:43:24 11:45:54 11:48:24 11:50:54

CONCENTRATION OF AEROSOL (mg/m3)

TIME

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

0 0.05 0.1 0.15 0.2 0.25 0.3 0.35

8:45:47 8:47:47 8:49:47 8:51:47 8:53:47 8:55:47 8:57:47 8:59:47 9:01:47 9:03:47 9:05:47 9:07:47 9:09:47 9:11:47 9:13:47 9:15:47 9:17:47 9:19:47 9:21:47 9:23:47 9:25:47 9:27:47 9:29:47 9:31:47 9:33:47 9:35:47 9:37:47 9:39:47 9:41:47 9:43:47 9:45:47

TIME (Seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(33)

25

Concentration of PM2.5 at Kuopiohalli site-II while Cleaning of Roads and Streets for which;

Graph No: 3

Concentration of PM2.5 for Street Sweeper-Niiralan koulu Kasarmikatu while Cleaning of Parking lots for which:

Graph No: 4

Concentration of PM2.5 at Taivaanpankontiepäiväkoti while Cleaning of Parking lots for which;

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5

10:35:06 10:36:36 10:38:06 10:39:36 10:41:06 10:42:36 10:44:06 10:45:36 10:47:06 10:48:36 10:50:06 10:51:36 10:53:06 10:54:36 10:56:06 10:57:36 10:59:06 11:00:36 11:02:06 11:03:36 11:05:06 11:06:36 11:08:06 11:09:36 11:11:06 11:12:36 11:14:06 11:15:36 11:17:06 11:18:36 11:20:06

TIME (seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8

8:42:24 8:43:54 8:45:24 8:46:54 8:48:24 8:49:54 8:51:24 8:52:54 8:54:24 8:55:54 8:57:24 8:58:54 9:00:24 9:01:54 9:03:24 9:04:54 9:06:24 9:07:54 9:09:24 9:10:54 9:12:24 9:13:54 9:15:24 9:16:54 9:18:24 9:19:54 9:21:24 9:22:54 9:24:24 9:25:54 9:27:24 9:28:54 9:30:24

Concentration of Aerosol (mg/m3)

Time (seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(34)

26

Graph No: 5

Concentration of PM2.5 for Paivarannan koulu while Cleaning of Parking lots for which;

Graph No: 6

Concentration of PM2.5 for Road Brushers and Truck Drivers at Rovastinkatu while Cleaning of main roads for which;

0 1 2 3 4 5

10:25:40 10:27:20 10:29:00 10:30:40 10:32:20 10:34:00 10:35:40 10:37:20 10:39:00 10:40:40 10:42:20 10:44:00 10:45:40 10:47:20 10:49:00 10:50:40 10:52:20 10:54:00 10:55:40 10:57:20 10:59:00 11:00:40 11:02:20 11:04:00 11:05:40 11:07:20 11:09:00 11:10:40 11:12:20 11:14:00 11:15:40 11:17:20 11:19:00

TIME (Seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TiME

0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7

7:43:49 7:45:49 7:47:49 7:49:49 7:51:49 7:53:49 7:55:49 7:57:49 7:59:49 8:01:49 8:03:49 8:05:49 8:07:49 8:09:49 8:11:49 8:13:49 8:15:49 8:17:49 8:19:49 8:21:49 8:23:49 8:25:49 8:27:49 8:29:49 8:31:49 8:33:49 8:35:49 8:37:49 8:39:49 8:41:49 8:43:49

TIME (Seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(35)

27

4.3.3 Graphical representation of results of concentration of inhalable dust recorded from Dust Trak Aerosol Monitor:

Graph No: 8

Concentration of PM2.5 at Kuopiohalli site-I while Cleaning of Streets and Building Lots for which;

8:02:24 8:09:36 8:16:48 8:24:00 8:31:12 8:38:24 8:45:36 8:52:48

Concentration og PM 2.5 (mg/m3)

Time (seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

CONCENTRATION

Average value: 0.069 mg/m³ Maximum value: 0.64 mg/m³ Minimum Value: 0.037 mg/m³

Graph No: 7

Concentration of PM2.5 for Truck of main roadsDrivers at Rypysuontie while Cleaning for which;

0 0.05 0.1 0.15 0.2 0.25 0.3

9:30:21 9:31:11 9:32:01 9:32:51 9:33:41 9:34:31 9:35:21 9:36:11 9:37:01 9:37:51 9:38:41 9:39:31 9:40:21 9:41:11 9:42:01 9:42:51 9:43:41 9:44:31 9:45:21 9:46:11 9:47:01 9:47:51 9:48:41 9:49:31 9:50:21 9:51:11 9:52:01 9:52:51 9:53:41 9:54:31

TIME (Seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(36)

28

Average value: 0.323 mg/m3 Maximum value: 6.595 mg/m3 Minimum Value: -0.065 mg/m3

Graph No: 9

Concentration of PM2.5 at Kuopiohalli site-II while Cleaning of Streets and Building Lots for which;

Graph No: 10

-0.05 0.95 1.95 2.95

CONCENTRATION OF PM2.5 (mg/m3)

Time

Concentration Vs Time

Concentration

-0.05 0 0.05 0.1 0.15 0.2 0.25

7:08:19 7:08:39 7:08:59 7:09:19 7:09:39 7:09:59 7:10:19 7:10:39 7:10:59 7:11:19 7:11:39 7:11:59 7:12:19 7:12:39 7:12:59 7:13:19 7:13:39 7:13:59 7:14:19 7:14:39 7:14:59

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(37)

29

Concentration of PM2.5 at Taivaanpakontie päiväkoti while Cleaning of Parking Lots for which;

Graph No: 11

Concentration of PM2.5 at Paivaran koulu while Cleaning of Parking Lots for which;

-0.02 0 0.02 0.04 0.06 0.08 0.1 0.12

7:09:09 7:09:29 7:09:49 7:10:09 7:10:29 7:10:49 7:11:09 7:11:29 7:11:49 7:12:09 7:12:29 7:12:49 7:13:09 7:13:29 7:13:49 7:14:09 7:14:29 7:14:49 7:15:09 7:15:29 7:15:49 7:16:09 7:16:29 7:16:49

Concentration of PM 2.5 (mg/m3)

Time (seconds)

CONCENTRATION Vs TIME

(38)

30

5 DISCUSSION

Keeping in view all the tasks performed for the calculation of concentration of Inhalable dust using IOM Sampler, Side Pack and Dust Trak, all the results were obtained and interpreted specific standard operating procedures. The procedures adopted for the calculation of concentration were undertaken keeping in view the atmospheric conditions i.e. temperature, relative humidity and wind speed using IOM Sampler. All the results obtained were found to be completely in compliance with the threshold limit values i.e.

10mg/m³ prescribed by American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists American (ACGIH).

The aim of the objective was to evaluate the dust concentration at various sites in Finland thus achieved results give evident concentration of dust particles measured using all three equipment.

It was found that out of all scenarios where the results were obtained under given conditions of temperature and humidity, the values of concentration were found to be relatively higher during lots cleaning using IOM Sampler but within limits for Taivaanpakontie Päiväkoti and Päivärannan koulu i.e. 6.74 and 7.97 mg/m³ respectively.

Comparing these with ACGIH and Finnish TLV values, it was found that obtained values were all within limits.

The average, minimum and maximum values obtained from Side Pack and Dust Track are also found to be within prescribed threshold limit values. Hence the results were satisfactory. The values of concentration were found to be within limits at all sites under study using Dust Trak i.e. 6.52 mg/m³. Additionally, the values of concentration were found to be relatively higher but within limits during parking lots cleaning using Side Pack for Päivärannan koulu i.e. 4.62 mg/m³. Comparing these with ACGIH and Finnish TLV values, it was found that obtained values were all within limits.

It must be noticed that the high wind speed, rain droplets in air (high humidity) and extremely low temperature will lead to probability of errors and will directly affect the calculations of IOM sampler. However, no such weather conditions will affect the readings obtained from Side Pack and Dust Trak.

(39)

31

6 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, different number of samples were gathered from various situations which includes leaf blowing on roadsides, car parking halls, cleaning of streets and Building lots, parking lots cleaning and cleaning of main roads for measurement of inhalable dust in various situations/locations using three methods/techniques such as IOM sampling head, sampling using Dust Trak and Side Pack. . The values of concentration for the aforesaid subject matter are compared with the threshold limit value set by ACGIH and the Finnish HTP values.

The study was conducted to interoperate and assess dust exposure level. This level must be achieved for work processes so that there should be negligible likeness of illness for workers working over any site and health of the labor is maintained even during working.

Additionally, this study or work is just kind of pilot study, and the results from this study will be helpful to create awareness to road cleaning workers and also somehow to policy makers. Moreover, this study will or can serve as a baseline data for future studies on the related topics.

(40)

32

7 REFERENCES

ACGIH. (2006). Threshold Limit Values for chemical substances.

Anwar, S. K., Mehmood, N., Nasim, N., Khurshid, M., & Khurshid, B. (2013). Sweeper’s lung disease: a cross-sectional study of an overlooked illness among sweepers of Pakistan.

International journal of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, 8, 193.

Gardiner, K., & Harrington, J. M. (2008). Occupational hygiene: John Wiley & Sons.

Garshick, E., Schenker, M. B., & Dosman, J. A. (1996). Occupationally induced airways obstruction. Medical Clinics, 80(4), 851-878.

ISO, I. (1995). 7708, Air quality—Particle size fractions definitions for the health-related sampling. International Standards Organization, Geneva.

Johncy, S. S., Dhanyakumar, G., & Samuel, T. V. (2014). Chronic exposure to dust and lung function impairment: a study on female sweepers in India. National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 4(1), 15.

Johncy SSST, J. M., Dhanyakumar G, Bondade SY. (2014). Prevalence of respiratory and non- respiratory symptoms in female sweepers. Int J Biomed Res. .

Kasper, D., Braunwald, E., Fauci, A., Hauser, S., Longo, D., & Jameson, J. Harrison‟ s.(2005) Principles of Internal Medicine. McGraw-Hill, New York.

Kumie, A., Wakuma, S., Bråtveit, M., Deressa, W., Mamuya, S., Teshome, B., & Moen, B. E.

(2017). Dust exposure levels among treet sweepers in Bole Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Ethiopian Journal of Health Development, 31(4), 236-243.

Kupiainen, K., Tervahattu, H., & Räisänen, M. (2003). Experimental studies about the impact of traction sand on urban road dust composition. Science of the Total Environment, 308(1-3), 175-184.

Marziale, M. (1989). The occupational risks in urban cleaning: street sweeping. Revista gaucha de enfermagem, 10(1), 71-81.

Miguel, A. G., Cass, G. R., Glovsky, M. M., & Weiss, J. (1999). Allergens in paved road dust and airborne particles. Environmental science & technology, 33(23), 4159-4168.

Morgan, W. K. C., & Seaton, A. (1975). Occupational lung diseases: WB Saunders Company, 12 Dyott Street, London WC1A 1DB.

Mostafa, N. S., Abdel-Hamid, M. A., & AlBagoury, L. S. (2015). Work-related respiratory disorders among street sweepers in Cairo, Egypt, a comparative study. Egyptian Journal of Community Medicine, 33(2).

Nku C, P. E., Eshiet A, Oku O, Osim E. (2005). Lung function, oxygen saturation and symptoms among street sweepers in Calabar. Niger J Physiol Sci.

Exposure of Dust on Road Maintenance/Cleaning Workers