Perception and reality of particulate matter exposure in New York City taxi drivers. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and black carbon (BC) have been linked to negative health risks, but exposure among professional taxi drivers is understudied. This pilot study measured drivers' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs (KAB) about air pollution compared with direct measures of exposures. Roadside and in-vehicle levels of PM2.5 and BC were continuously measured over a single shift on each subject, and exposures compared with central site monitoring. One hundred drivers completed an air pollution KAB questionnaire, and seven taxicabs participated in preliminary in-cab air sampling. Taxicab PM2.5 and BC concentrations were elevated compared with nearby central monitoring. Average PM2.5 concentrations per 15-min interval were 4-49 μg/m3. BC levels were also elevated; reaching>10 μg/m3. Fifty-six of the 100 drivers surveyed believed they were more exposed than non-drivers; 81 believed air pollution causes health problems. Air pollution exposures recorded suggest that driver exposures would likely exceed EPA recommendations if experienced for 24 h. Surveys indicated that driver awareness of this was limited. Future studies should focus on reducing exposures and increasing awareness among taxi drivers.

publication date

  • May 11, 2016

Research

keywords

  • Air Pollutants
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Occupational Exposure
  • Particulate Matter
  • Soot
  • Vehicle Emissions

Identity

PubMed Central ID

  • PMC5547750

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 84966565251

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1038/jes.2016.23

PubMed ID

  • 27168392

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 27

issue

  • 2