Air pollution test confirms high levels of benzene in Merebank
Unfortunately, the bucket system cannot ascertain how long the component has been in the air and will only prove what people were exposed to and breathing in at that particular time.
AIR quality inspectors from the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) were appalled at the high levels of benzene found in the air in Badulla Drive in Merebank, recently.
After responding to reports of air pollution, SDCEA’s air quality inspector, Bongani Mthembu, visited the area on May 23, and took samples from the air using the bucket system.
Test results have returned, indicating a high concentration of benzene, causing concern among members of the environmental organisation.
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“The report indicated 26.01 micrograms of benzene per cubic metre. Benzene is a carcinogenic pollutant, meaning it is a cancer causer or trigger. We must remember that this was just a grab sample.
“The biggest question, was these pollutants in the air for an hour, 30 minutes or days? Unfortunately, the bucket system cannot ascertain how long the component has been in the air and will only prove what people were exposed to and breathing in at that particular time. Although we cannot show how long it has been in the air, it does shows high levels,” said Mthembu.
The air samples were shipped to a lab in Pretoria.
“The national ambient air quality standard for benzene for a year averaging period concentration allowed is five micrograms per cubic metre. According to a compliance legislation gazetted on January 1, 2015, we are guided by the same law to date.
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“From the results we have received it’s shocking and raises too many questions. Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and hematological effects. Benzene is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract.
“Residents need to be educated about smells that kill and how to identify odours that have negative effects, as well as their typical sources. All odours need to be reported immediately to stop the continued exploitation of our community and environment,” added Mthembu.
To report odours, contact the SDCEA office on 031 461 1991 or the eThekwini Department of Health on 031 361 0000.
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