Monitoring and Analysis on Benzene Series in Public Indoor Air of Xianning, Hubei in 2016

Objectives To monitor the concentration and distribution of benzene series in public indoor air of Xianning and to provide scientific evidence and technical support for relevant department to develop critical control strategies.

Methods Fifty public indoor air samples were selected by random for monitoring the concentration of benzene series in the air. Sample collection was based on the Determination of Toxic Substance in the Air of Workplaces, and these compounds were detected by GC-MS.

Results The rates of detection for benzene, methylbenzene and xylene in public indoor air were 23.1%, 16.3% and 62.5%, respectively (χ²=56.1, P < 0.01), but all values were not over the standard limits. The rates of detection for xylene was the highest. The rates of detection for xylene in hotel, swimming pool, hairdresser, beauty salon and waiting room were 83.3%, 58.3%, 25.0%, 50.0% and 38.9%, respectively. (χ²=75.8, P < 0.01).

Conclusions The detection of benzene series in public indoor air was common in Xianning, which could have impact on public health. Measures targeting to improve the air quality in public indoors should be strengthened.