Air quality monitoring during indoor Monster Truck and car demolition shows

This article describes the results of air quality monitoring in an indoor i ce skating rink during three Monster Truck and car demolition exhibitions. and the public health study that was carried out. The exposure of the peopl e present to carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide was continuously monitore d in order to determine the time-weighted average concentrations and the ma ximum peaks. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations were generally under the limit of detection of the device (0.5 ppm). However, carbon monoxide levels exce eded standards for workers. Maximum time-weighted average concentrations du ring the exhibitions were 100 parts per million with several peaks exceedin g 200 parts per million (maximum value: 1600 parts per million). Recommenda tions were made and during a subsequent event, the carbon monoxide concentr ations were reduced to protect health. Indoor exhibitions of motorized vehi cles generate significant amounts of combustion gases, which can be a healt h hazard. There must be sufficient ventilation and the carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide concentrations must be monitored. In addition, the motors of the most polluting vehicles should be adjusted before the events in orde r to limit the emission of combustion products. If these steps are not met, the events should be held outdoors.