Assessment of air quality index in proximity of Bandar Abbas oil refinery

Introduction: Air pollution is one of the most important problems in recent century, which threats humans' health. This study was conducted to assess air pollution with respect to PM10, SO2, CO, NO2, H2S, and Air Quality Index (AQI), in a location in close proximity to Bandar Abbas oil refinery. Methods: In this study a location in close proximity to Bandar Abbas oil refinery was selected as the sampling station. In order to assess PM10 concentrations, samples were taken using high volume sampler on fiberglass filters. PM10 concentrations were calculated using gravimetric method and its related equation. For measuring concentrations of other air pollutants including SO2, CO, H2S, and NO2, real-time instruments were used. AQI values were calculated and considering the wind rose, the effect of the oil refinery on Bandar Abbas was evaluated. Results: PM10, SO2 and NO2 concentrations were higher than recommended values of national ambient air standards. Maximum PM10 and SO2 concentrations and their resultant AQI values were observed in August and September, respectively. Other air pollutants had their highest concentrations in July and September, but in no case they exceeded the standard values. Conclusion: As in some days concentrations of PM10 and SO2 and their resultant AQI values were higher than standard levels, it seems necessary to develop continues monitoring of contaminant sources, determine and control the sources of such contaminants and develop local guidelines.