Indoor Particulate Matter Assessment in a Northern Nigerian Abattoir and a Residential Building

Abstract

Indoor air pollution in buildings puts people at risk of developing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Particulate matter (PM) exposure is known to cause these health issues. Preliminary efforts were made in this study to assess the quantity and quality of PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 present in an abattoir and a residential building in northern Nigeria. Canree A1 low-cost sensor was used to monitor the locations, 8 hourly for two weeks. The results showed that the average values (μg/m3 ) of PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 in an abattoir were 62.74, 161.94, and 199.08, respectively, and in a residential building were 28.70, 83.31, and 103.71. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) of the abattoir office was Very Unhealthy, while the living room of the residential building was unhealthy. The PM2.5, and PM10 levels were higher than the international (WHO) and national (FMEnv) standard limits, indicating a potential danger to building occupants. It is expected that the indoor environment of the locations will be improved by the use of good ventilators (adequate windows and doors) and the provision of good extractors.