Assessment of Indoor Air Quality in Selected Paint Manufacturing Facilities in Lagos State

Workers in paint manufacturing facilities are chronically exposed to volatile organic compounds, heavy metal pigments, and particulate matter that may have significant adverse health implications. This study assessed indoor air quality in three small-scale paint manufacturing facilities in the Mushin industrial district of Lagos State. Measurements were taken for benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene compounds using photoionisation detectors calibrated against certified reference standards. Particulate matter concentrations for PM2.5 and PM10 were determined using a portable light-scattering photometer. Lead dust levels were measured using X-ray fluorescence analysis of filter samples from personal air samplers. Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide were monitored with electrochemical sensors. Volatile organic compound concentrations exceeded OSHA permissible exposure limits in the mixing and filling areas of all three facilities, with toluene reaching 412 ppm in the worst case. PM10 concentrations exceeded 500 micrograms per cubic metre during pigment mixing operations. Lead dust was detected at levels above the NIOSH recommended exposure limit in facilities producing lead-containing primer paints. Carbon dioxide levels indicated inadequate ventilation in enclosed mixing rooms. None of the three facilities had functional exhaust ventilation systems. Worker awareness of chemical hazards was assessed by questionnaire and found to be very low. The study recommends mandatory installation of local exhaust ventilation, provision of appropriate respiratory protective equipment, and routine air quality monitoring as components of a minimum occupational health standard for Nigerian paint manufacturers.

Keywords: indoor air quality, volatile organic compounds, paint manufacturing, occupational exposure, Lagos State