INVESTIGATING THE POLLUTION OF CARBON MONOXIDE INSCHOOLS NEAR TO MAIN ROADS IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

This paper aims to study carbon monoxide (CO) concentration in schools along Federal Road in Muallim, Perak. The quantitative approach with field survey and sampling methods used for theCO data. A sampling of CO data in Per million (ppm) value using Carbon Monoxide MeterAS8700A for three stations, SMK Khir Johari, SMK Agama Slim River, and SMK Dato Zulkifli Muhammad. The CO was sampling for seven days,with data collection three times a day, from 7:00am - 8:00 am, 9:00 am - 10:00 am, and 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. This study applies a descriptive analysis.The results showthe lowest level of CO concentration was in SMK Agama Slim River, which is 0ppm, and the highest, which is 3.7 ppm. Meanwhile, the lowest CO level in SMK Dato Zulkifli Muhammad is 2.3 ppm, and the highest level is 5.7 ppm. The lowest CO concentration level in SMK Khir Johari is 2.3 ppm, and the highest is 4.3 ppm. The results show that the SMK Dato Zulkifli Muhammad recorded the highest CO concentration, 3.92 ppm higher than SMK Khir Johari, which recorded 3.57 ppm. SMK Agama Slim River is the lowest CO concentration station which is 1.62 ppm. In conclusion, transportation activities involving motor vehicles influenced the CO concentrations obtained by the researchers. For the implication, effective measures should be taken at the school near major roads to curb CO gas poisoning, ensure life comfort, and preserve the environment.