Respirable particles and carcinogens in the air of delaware hospitality venues before and after a smoking ban

J Occup Environ Med. 2004 Sep;46(9):887-905. doi: 10.1097/01.jom.0000141644.69355.52.

Abstract

How do the concentrations of indoor air pollutants known to increase risk of respiratory disease, cancer, heart disease, and stroke change after a smoke-free workplace law? Real-time measurements were made of respirable particle (RSP) air pollution and particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAH), in a casino, six bars, and a pool hall before and after a smoking ban. Secondhand smoke contributed 90% to 95% of the RSP air pollution during smoking, and 85% to 95% of the carcinogenic PPAH, greatly exceeding levels of these contaminants encountered on major truck highways and polluted city streets. This air-quality survey demonstrates conclusively that the health of hospitality workers and patrons is endangered by tobacco smoke pollution. Smoke-free workplace laws eliminate that hazard and provide health protection impossible to achieve through ventilation or air cleaning.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollution, Indoor / analysis*
  • Carcinogens / analysis*
  • Delaware
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods
  • Humans
  • Leisure Activities
  • Particle Size
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons / analysis*
  • Smoking Prevention*
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution / analysis*

Substances

  • Carcinogens
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
  • Tobacco Smoke Pollution