Toxicologia Ambiental e Analítica

Characterization of Atmospheric Gaseous Components in Abattoir Operation Site in Ogbor-Hill Aba, Abia State, Nigeria

Abstract

Ubuoh EA, Uchendu UI and Kanu C

Ambient air pollutant has become a major problem in most town in Nigeria. The study aimed at assessing the spatiotemporal variation of abattoir operation on the ambient air quality in Ogbor-hill Aba. The study was carried out within 3 months with emphasis on seven pollutant that originated from abattoir operation at graded distance. From the result, three of the criteria pollutants monitored, SO2, NO2 and PM10 recorded the mean values of 613.25 µg/m3. 699.05 µg/m3 and 1966.67 µg/m3. these exceeded the national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS) by 13%, 14.31% and 76.27% respectively. With a statistical model, the PSI value for the pollutants were found to be SO2 (588.81 µg/m3), NO2 (878.62 µg/m3) and PM10 (585.91 µg/m3) which signifies elevated concentration of pollutant. Further comparisons were made using WHO and FMENV, the result of the pollutants exceeded their approved standards. On subjection to ANOVA, SO2 and NO2 exerted a significant effect at p = 0.01 and PM10 proved significant at p = 0.05. the entire result indicated a very serious health implication on the public especially those with existing health challenges. The high concentration of these pollutants on the ambient air triggers health alters and every one may experience more serious health effect on continuous exposure. To mitigate this emission, the abattoir operators must adopt a hygienic and modern of effluent before disposal. Excess waste can be used for agricultural purposes. Further abatement measures may require the relocation of the abattoir far from residential areas.