ARCHIVES
VOL. 8, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Assessment of air quality and occupational exposure risks in automobile mechanic workshops along the Mofor–Orhuwhorun Axis, Udu Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria
Authors
Adeyemi Oyeyemi, Osuoha Judith Chiazor
Abstract
This study assessed air quality and
occupational exposure risks in automobile mechanic workshops within the
Mofor–Orhuwhorun axis of Udu Local Government Area, Delta State. The study
aimed to quantify selected air pollutants—carbon dioxide (CO₂), total volatile
organic compounds (TVOCs), formaldehyde (HCHO), halogen gases, combustible
gases, particulate matter (PM₀.₃–₁₀ µm)—and noise levels, and to evaluate their
implications for human health. A 13-day sampling period was conducted,
complemented by a questionnaire survey (Q1–Q18) administered to mechanics
across five age categories. Pollutant concentrations were analysed for daily
mean and standard error of mean (SEM), while correlation, regression, and
Chi-square tests determined relationships among variables and demographic
factors. Results revealed that pollutant concentrations frequently exceeded
permissible limits, reflecting poor ventilation and high emission intensity.
CO₂ ranged from 384.00–1,987.45 ppm, TVOCs averaged 0.89 mg/m³, and HCHO
exceeded the WHO guideline of 0.1 mg/m³ on multiple days. Fine and ultrafine
particulates (PM₀.₃–₁.₀ µm) dominated the airspace, contributing over 85% of
total particulate load. Regression analysis identified CO₂ as the most
significant predictor of particulate concentration (p = 0.0121), indicating
that combustion processes are the major source of airborne pollutants.
Chi-square results revealed significant associations between age, work
experience, exposure duration, and protective behaviour (p < 0.05). The study
concludes that air quality in the workshops is severely degraded, posing
serious respiratory and systemic health risks. It recommends improved
ventilation, regular air monitoring, and strict enforcement of occupational
safety regulations to safeguard worker health and minimise environmental
pollution.
Download
Pages:1-9
How to cite this article:
Adeyemi Oyeyemi, Osuoha Judith Chiazor "Assessment of air quality and occupational exposure risks in automobile mechanic workshops along the Mofor–Orhuwhorun Axis, Udu Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria". International Journal of Environmental and Ecology Research, Vol 8, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 1-9
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.