Abstract
In this study, downwind odour concentrations from a communal toilet facility were measured by trained human receptors using the plume method over a 10 day period from mid-May to mid-June 2015 over an approximate downwind area of 1000 m2 (about 800 m long and 30 m). Source emission measurements and extensive meteorological data were collected along with the field odor concentration measurements. Modelling of the measurement events at specific receptor locations using the US EPA SCREEN3 model was compared to field odor measurements at the same locations. The study also showed how subjectivity in the use of the human nose in measuring odour strength could be reduced by selecting odour inspectors using the “Standard Procedure for Testing Individual Odour Sensitivity”. Also an odour dispersion model using the US EPA SCREEN3 model was built and simulated and the output of the simulated model compared with the measured data. A paired t-test, t(5) = -1.29, p = 0.902 (p > 0.05), showed that there was no statistically significant difference between simulated model output and measured data, hence the possible of using odour dispersion models improved operation of a communal toilet in relation to odour impact.
Highlights
It is generally recognised that for effective odour control measures to be implemented, the problem must first be quantified [1]-[3]
The control of odour emissions has become an important consideration in the design of new technologies and improvement of existing ones
Given the progressive nature of legislation concerning environmental pollution, it is not unreasonable to expect future legislation targeted at odour emissions
Summary
It is generally recognised that for effective odour control measures to be implemented, the problem must first be quantified [1]-[3]. Such quantification of the problem allows designers and caretakers to make informed decisions on the choice of processes, process modifications or the scope of odour control schemes [4]. A substantial body of evidence is available on a complex of behavioural motivators determining use and investments in latrines, for example in the studies of Jenkins and Curtis [8] and Jenkins and Scott [9] from Ghana. Few authors have published work on the specific sensors aspect of smell in relation to sanitation promotion [6]
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