Evaluation of the Carbon Monoxide Emissions of Electric Power Generators Used in Buildings in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Evaluation of the Carbon Monoxide Emissions of Electric Power Generators Used in Buildings in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Summary/Abstract: The poor supply of electricity to different settlements in Nigeria, continuing over the years now, has forced building occupants to shift to dependence on generators. This study determines the outdoor and indoor carbon monoxide levels relating to the use of generators in both residential and commercial buildings and assesses their impact on the users and environment. The study was carried out in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria, which was divided into core, transition and suburban zones. Consequently, five (5) residential and commercial buildings were purposively selected in each of the zones of the study area. The HT-1000 digital LCD carbon monoxide meter was used to take measurements of the emissions of carbon monoxide with conformity to NESREA and OSHA standards. The outdoor emission levels of carbon monoxide before or during the use of generators were taken at 0, 2 and 4m, respectively, from the external walls of the buildings sampled and the corresponding indoor measurements were taken internally at 1.2-1.5m above floor area. The data collected were analysed with the use of statistical methods, such as t-test, trend analysis and Kolmogorov Smirnov test. The results show that the values of outdoor and indoor measurements of carbon monoxide emissions levels were the highest in buildings in the core zone either before or during the use of generating sets. Reduced carbon monoxide levels during the use of generators were obtained at distance limits beyond 2m from the external walls of buildings across the zones of the study area. In view of the measurements taken and the obtained results ranging above the limits set by statutory bodies, as well as the attendant effects on the environment and building occupants, it is recommended that users of the generators should be forced to position them in enclosures located away from external walls of buildings and that the government should license only sales of generating sets with emission control mechanisms.

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