PARTICULATE MATTER LEVELS AND HEALTH HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH THE SINGEING OF COWHIDES IN ABATTOIRS IN BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

This research was carried out to assess the particulate matter levels and health hazards associated with the singeing of cowhides in abattoirs in Benin City. Five abattoirs were selected at Ikpoba slope. Meteorological and air quality parameters were carried out. The measurements of air samples were done every week in each abattoirs for a period of four weeks. Air pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, meteorological data such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed were measured. Hand-held Multi-gas detectors were used for PM2.5, and PM10 were measured using Air Quality Monitor (TLQHLPM11), while the wind speed, humidity and temperature were measured by a BTMETER (BT-100) pro anemometer. The air quality and meteorological parameters were subjected to descriptive and inferential analysis using mean, and analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The variations in the weekly air quality and meteorological parameter concentrations in the abattoir were analyzed using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The temperature level of abattoirs were measured at three different point at abattoirs from 24 to 30oC. Relative humidity ranged from 70 – 80. The speed of the wind from 0.43 - 0.88, PM2.5 from 50 – 500, the PM10 ranged from 40 to 700. The questionnaire analysis indicate that the air quality around the abattoirs had impact on the health of the workers. It is crucial for abattoir management and regulatory bodies to implement and enforce strict safety protocols and standards to mitigate the health risks posed by the singeing process. This may include the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers, regular air quality monitoring, and the installation of effective air filtration and ventilation systems.