PM2.5 and PM10 exposure in selected animal feed processing facilities in Kiambu County, Kenya.

Abstract

The high demand for animal feed in major towns in Kenya has escalated the proliferation of animal feed manufacturing and uncontrolled animal feed facilities. This exposes the workers to grain dust, which is harmful to their respiratory health. The exposure levels have not been extensively studied and reported in Kenya. The goal of the study was to assess the exposure levels of grain dust to animal feed mill workers in Kiambu County, Kenya. The animal feed facilities were purposely sampled. The grain dust exposure levels in the study sites were monitored using a portable particulate matter sensor. SPSS was used to process and analyze the collected data. The mean PM10 of 53.72 μg/m3 and PM2.5 of 36.54 μg/m3 exceeded the WHO Air Quality Guideline level of a 24-hour exposure time of 45 μg/m3 for PM10 and PM2.5, 15 μg/m3. The study recommends continued implementation of the dust control measures within the animal feed manufacturing facilities and adherence to the set safety and health guidelines by the feed processors.