• 2026-05-08
• O. Omoniyi, C.O. Akinbile, J.J. Popoola, V.O.E. Akpambang
• Volume 2, Issue 1

Abstract

The deterioration of air quality in semi-mechanized abattoirs has received limited attention despite their proximity to residential and commercial areas. This study assessed the spatial and temporal variation of air pollutants across five operational zones of a 3.5 ha semi-mechanized abattoir in Akure, southwestern Nigeria, using multi-sensor air quality monitoring systems. Measured parameters included CH₄, CO₂, NH₃, H₂S, NO₂, SO₂, VOCs, acetone, H₂, PM₁.₀, PM₂.₅, and PM₁₀. Significant variations in pollutant concentrations were observed among the zones. The slaughtering hall recorded the highest average PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ concentrations (122.28 and 131.89 µg m⁻³, respectively), identifying it as the major exposure hotspot. The hide singeing zone exhibited elevated NH₃ (1.42 ppm), NO₂ (2.02 ppm), PM₂.₅ (65.37 µg m⁻³), and PM₁₀ (110.68 µg m⁻³), indicating intense combustion-related emissions, while the administrative zone recorded a peak CO₂ concentration of 1062 ppm, suggesting pollutant dispersion beyond processing areas. Nighttime measurements showed higher concentrations of NH₃, H₂S, CH₄, CO₂, and PM₂.₅ due to reduced atmospheric dispersion. Wet season conditions further intensified NH₃ and PM₂.₅ emissions. Health risk assessment revealed NH₃ hazard quotients above critical limits (1.42–2.27), hazard indexes ranging from 3.28 to 211.10, and AQI values between 456.4 and 500.0, indicating hazardous air quality conditions. The findings highlight severe localized pollution and significant public health risks associated with abattoir operations

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