Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
SUMARSKI LIST, cilt.11, sa.12, ss.555-564, 2024 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
One of the most time-consuming
stages in the production of coniferous trees is debarking of the logs. During
de-barking with a chainsaw apparatus, many air pollutants such as bark
residues, dust, sawdust, fuel material, etc. are released into the environment.
This situation reduces the air quality for the workers. This study aims to
investigate the impact of the debarking process on worker health and
environmental impacts in coastal pine plantations in Sarıyer region. The air pollution
parameters PM2.5, PM10, CO2 and HCHO levels during the debarking process were
measured using a Temtop M2000 air quality meter. The results showed that when
comparing these values to standard air quality metrics, it is clear that the
peak values of PM2.5, PM10, and CO2 (247 μg/m3, 411 μg/m3, and 2549 ppm, respectively)
result in a "Very Unhealthy" environment. The average values for all
three parameters (83.91 μg/m3, 121.69 μg/m3, and 614.19 ppm, respectively) are
classified as "Unhealthy" for PM2.5, and "Moderate" for
PM10 and CO2. The study results emphasize that the log debarking process is
associated with bark volume, CO2 release and PM2.5 levels. Therefore, it is
vital that workers in harvesting use maximum protective equipment, especially respirators.
There is also a need to raise awareness and provide training for forest workers
on the use of protective equipment. These findings may contribute to the
development of effective policies on the health of workers in wood production
and environmental air quality.