Expose of particulate matters (PM10) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at passenger transport stations in Surat Thani Municipality
Keywords:
Particulate matter less than 10 microns, Passenger transport stations, Volatile organic compoundsAbstract
This study aimed to assess the exposure levels of particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 microns (PM10) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and to compare the levels of PM10 and VOCs at passenger transport stations in Surat Thani Municipality. Measurements were conducted at two stations: the local minibus (Songthaew) station and the public van station. For each station, samples were collected from three locations: the driver parking area, the ticket booth, and the passenger waiting area. Descriptive statistics including percentage, mean, and standard deviation were used for data analysis. Comparisons between PM10 and VOCs exposure levels at passenger transportation were made using the t-test.
The results showed that the highest PM10 concentration was found at the ticket booth of the minibus station (0.14 ± 0.04 mg/m3), and at the driver parking area of the public van station (1.65 ± 0.61 mg/m3). The highest VOC concentrations were observed at the driver parking areas of both stations, with levels of 794.34 ± 0.14 μg/m3 at the minibus station and 798.84 ± 0.05 μg/m3 at the public van station, indicating high exposure risk. Comparatively, PM10 concentrations at both the driver parking area and ticket booth of the public van station were significantly higher than those at the minibus station (p = 0.000 and p = 0.021, respectively). When comparing the concentration of PM10 at the parking area and the ticket selling point in the public van transportation, it was higher than the minibus station (p-value < 0.001 and p-value = 0.021). VOC concentrations at the driver parking area were slightly higher than those at the minibus station (p-value = 0.340). Therefore, it is recommended to provide training to staff about the hazards of PM10 and VOCs, occupational diseases, preventive measures, and awareness of the dangers associated with these exposures.
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