Sulphur hexafluoride is synthesised as a persistent and non-toxic gas with an exceptional dielectric strength. In contemporary medium-voltage switchgear within power distribution systems, SF6 gas is used for the insulation and the extinction of electric arc. The application of SF6 has advantages in terms of gas physicochemical characteristics and performance; the dimensions, the cost-effectiveness, the reliability of the switchgear equipment and the duration, as well as the cost of maintenance were significantly reduced. SF6 is a known greenhouse gas, which tends to accumulate in the lungs, inducing oxygen depletion and respiratory complications. The by-products of SF6 formed during the electric arc can be harmful and toxic. The equipment containing SF6 is being replaced in the EU and worldwide. Using ALOHA? software the scenarios of leakage for SF6 and by-products were modelled in urban areas, where the switchgear is frequently placed. In areas where the circulation of wind is lower (urban areas), in hazardous situations, it is not possible to depend on high dispersion levels or minimisation of concentration and threat. The models have shown that SF6 poses an environmental problem and its by-products cause a serious health hazard in the case of leakage in urban areas, rendering red threat zones from 10 to 60 m in radius.
Parks can aid in the regulation of microclimates and the improvement of air quality. They can be utilized in real-world systems to choose the best model for explaining the source of pollutant emissions, indicating the requirement for pollution concentration monitoring. Monitoring concentration trends is critical to formulating a strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and the contribution of these gasses to the greenhouse effect, as well as to curbing the rising levels of PM in the air. The research background of this study was performed in the green parks of Novi Sad, Serbia. The results are represented in terms of the quantity of the pollutants, and the correlation of the examined phenomena through statistical analysis. Aeroqual monitors with laser sensors were used to take measurements of particle pollution (PM2.5/10). The constant was confirmed by inter-comparison laboratory measurements of air-quality quantitative control. The measurement findings revealed a minor variance in concentration values for PM2.5/10 from 26–30 μg/m3, which were within the allowed limits, indicating that the air was moderately clean. The linear link between particle concentrations and nitrogen dioxide in the sample was also validated using simple linear regression, as was the high influence of humidity on particle concentrations.
The construction of residential buildings significantly contributes to urban expansion but also poses environmental challenges, particularly regarding air quality. The study assesses PM10 exposure during the construction of a 10-story residential block in a suburban area of Novi Sad. The methodology is based on the EMEP/EEA Tier1 emission model, analyzing PM10 concentrations, dose-response functions, occupational exposure limits (OELs), and Air Quality Index (AQI) calculations. Results indicate an average PM10 concentration of 183.055 µg/m³, nearly 3.66 times higher than the OEL, posing significant health risks to workers and nearby residents. The AQI classification falls under "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," highlighting the need for dust control measures such as water spraying and restricted vehicle movement. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring air pollution in construction sites to ensure environmental safety and compliance with air quality regulations.
Indoor apartment reconstruction can generate short-duration particulate matter (PM) and noise peaks that are masked by average measurements. Time-resolved PM1, PM2.5 and PM10, gaseous pollutants and noise were monitored at five reconstruction sites (CS1–CS5) in Novi Sad, Serbia, with a stationary multi-sensor node placed on a tripod at 1.5 m height, 1–2 m from the workers. Five-minute records were linked to a retrospective activity log and analyzed for confirmed working periods (85.2 h). Working hours had 2.7-fold higher PM2.5 and 1.9-fold higher PM10 than non-work hours (mixed-effects model). The highest concentrations occurred during mechanical wall sanding, metal cutting and drywall work, and demolition by breaking, whereas long tiling periods contributed substantially to cumulative exposure. Exposure was strongly episodic: on all workdays, 19–31% of working time accounted for half of the cumulative PM10 exposure, and the largest event contributed 40% of daily PM2.5 exposure within 85 min. Differences between workdays exceeded those between sites, PM10–noise correlations were weak (ρ = 0.36), and screening ratios for carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide relative to EU occupational limit values were below 0.15. As the measurements were stationary and involved two workers, the results describe near-field potential rather than personal exposure.
Airborne particulate matter, particularly PM10 represents a significant environmental and occupational health concern on construction sites. The research explores how different construction materials effects PM10 generation during handling activities. In the absence of field measurements, a simulation-based approach was applied using emission factors defined by authoritative sources, including the EMEP/EEA Guidebook and USEPA AP-42 methodology. Seven widely used materials were selected to represent diverse physical properties and usage profiles: Portland cement, gypsum board, sand, aerated concrete blocks, clay bricks, polystyrene insulation, and gravel. For each material, multiple simulations were performed under controlled assumptions, incorporating realistic background PM10 levels to replicate urban construction site conditions. A PM10 Emission Index was defined to normalize emission potential per unit mass of material handled. Results indicate that fine, low-density materials such as Portland cement and gypsum board exhibit the highest emission intensities, while coarse, dense materials such as gravel and clay bricks contribute significantly less to airborne particulate concentrations. The findings highlight the substantial variability in emission potential across materials and emphasize the importance of material selection in sustainable construction planning. These insights can guide policymakers and construction professionals in adopting low-emission materials and better on-site dust control strategies.