Awareness of risk to indoor air pollutants among computers and photocopiers business operators in Nigerian tertiary institutions

Abstract

This study assesses awareness of risk to indoor air pollutants among computers and photocopiers operators in business centres of Nigerian tertiary institutions. Tertiary institutions in Nigeria are characterized by different businesses due to influx of students and level of academic activities. These businesses require constant supply of electricity which is not obtainable in most Nigerian cities due to the epileptic power supply from the national grid. This has influenced the operators to privately own and generate electricity to facilitate the businesses. Improper use and siting of these generators affects the quality of the indoor air and health of both the users and students who spent most time indoor. One hundred (100) questionnaires were administered to the business operators in selected tertiary institutions to seek their level of awareness to risk exposure to indoor air pollutants in the business premises. The results from this study show that there is massive (93.33%) use of electric power generator and high level of risk awareness (98.75%) amidst the operators. About 50% of the shops have no opening for ventilation. The study also reveal docile attitude of the operators on the risk associated with the generator indoor pollution. The study recommends the enforcement by appropriate regulatory body on shop owners to provide adequate openings (windows) for ventilation in the shops. The use of central electric power generating plant should be encouraged for all the business centres. There should be public enlightenment on adherence to safe generator distance, use of protective devices and frequent medical checkup should be intensified. As a matter of urgency, the government and the relevant bodies should address the issues of the national electric power supply