Title | Respiratory Irritants in Australian Bushfire Smoke: Air Toxics Sampling in a Smoke Chamber and During Prescribed Burns |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2009 |
Authors | De Vos, AJBM, Reisen, F, Cook, A, Devine, B, Weinstein, P |
Journal | Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology |
Volume | 56 |
Issue | 3 |
Pagination | 380 - 388 |
Date Published | 4/2009 |
Abstract | Abstract Bushfire smoke contains an array of organic
and inorganic compounds, including respirable and inspirable
particles, aldehydes, and carbon monoxide. These
compounds have been found to be a health hazard for
firefighters in the United States. Despite the high frequency
of bushfires in Australia, analyses of bushfire smoke
components are scarce. As part of an occupational health
study investigating the respiratory health effects of bushfire
smoke in firefighters, air toxics sampling was undertaken in
a smoke chamber and during prescribed burns. Levels of
formaldehyde and acrolein were demonstrated at respectively
60% and 80% of the Short Term Exposure Limit in
the smoke chamber. Carbon monoxide levels exceeded the
peak limit of 400 ppm significantly. Although concentrations
were lower during the prescribed burns, the study
shows that Australian bushfire smoke contains air toxics of
concern and provides justification for further research into
the levels of air toxics measured |
DOI | 10.1007/s00244-008-9209-3 |
Short Title | Arch Environ Contam Toxicol |
Refereed Designation | Refereed |