ASSESSMENT OF AIR QUALITY AROUND A CONSTRUCTION SITE, IN NKPA ABAK, ABAK L.G.A

This study assesses the concentration of air pollutants, including CO, HCHO, TVOCS, PM2.5, PM10, and CO2, around an active construction site to evaluate compliance with international air quality standards and potential health implications. Measurements recorded concentrations of CO at 2.25±0.500 ppm, HCHO at 0.0067±0.001 mg/m³, TVOCs at 0.0135±0.001 mg/m³, PM2.5 at 25.5±3.500 µg/m³, PM10 at 30.5±5.000 µg/m³, and CO2 at 559.5±281.800 ppm. Results revealed that CO, HCHO, and TVOCs were well within the permissible limits established by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA) and World Health Organization (WHO). However, PM2.5 and PM10 levels met FEPA standards but exceeded WHO's stricter guidelines, with PM2.5 within FEPA's permissible threshold and PM10 exceeding WHO's recommended maximum by approximately 53%. CO2 concentrations did not breach any formal limits, as neither FEPA nor WHO defines specific thresholds for CO2 in outdoor ambient air; nonetheless, recorded levels were higher than typical atmospheric values, suggesting possible elevated emissions due to construction activities. The findings indicate minimal immediate health risks from CO, HCHO, and TVOCs, while elevated PM2.5 and PM10 levels pose potential risks for respiratory and cardiovascular issues, particularly for vulnerable individuals. High PM concentrations and slightly elevated CO2 levels underscore the need for continuous air quality monitoring, effective dust control, and improved ventilation practices to mitigate exposure for workers and nearby residents. Recommendations for future studies include long-term monitoring to assess seasonal pollutant variability, source apportionment of particulate matter, and evaluating the impact of pollutant mitigation techniques specific to construction environments.