Case Study of In-Cab Pollutants for Nonroad Construction Equipment

Phil Lewis, Ph.D.
Texas A&M University
College Station, TX

Rachel Mosier, Ph.D. and Yongwei Shan, Ph.D.
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK

Like buildings, nonroad construction equipment with enclosed cabs have doors and windows, and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems; thus, these machines have their own indoor air quality (IAQ) environment.  Understanding the role of thermal comfort and air pollutants can help equipment operators manage in-cab environments to reduce health concerns and increase productivity.  The objective of this case study was to collect and analyze IAQ data from the cabs of nonroad equipment as it performed real-world activities.  Using state-of-the-art IAQ instrumentation, data were collected for in-cab pollutant concentration levels including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and respirable particulate matter.  Concentrations of carbon monoxide did not exceed published exposure limits for IAQ, but they did approach the published limits. Concentrations of CO2 frequently exceeded IAQ recommended levels for adequate ventilation.  Concentrations of respirable particulate matter frequently exceeded IAQ recommended levels.  The case study yielded enough information to conclude that studying IAQ in nonroad equipment cabs is necessary to improve human health, safety, and productivity for equipment operators.

Key Words:  Indoor air quality, equipment, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, particulate matter

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