Assessment of Particulate Matter (PM) Exposure and Noise Levels in the Basement Parking Area of Malls

abstract

The basement parking area constitutes various air pollutants and exposure to these pollutants which are present in high concentrations proves hazardous to environment and human health. The health effects of motor vehicle emissions are known but due to the nature of basement parking area, it is anticipated that these health risks may be amplified. Due to lack of air flow in and around the area, the Particulate Matter (PM) and vehicle exhaust particles gets accumulated in the basement parking area. PM2.5 is especially dangerous because it can penetrate deep into the lungs and sometimes even into the bloodstream. Another reason for selecting basement area is the noise pollution. The Basement parking area is enclosed which causes sound reflection and echoing of noise. As the ceiling height is low, there is little space for sound to escape. This is of particular concern since it may be possible that it will have a cumulative effect and also because employees and subcontractors that provide security, maintenance and other various services may be subjected to work in these environment for a substantial period of time. Some solutions for improvement in ventilation system are presented in this paper.

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