Assessment of Potential Health Hazards During Emission of Hydrogen Sulphide from the Mine Exploiting Copper Ore Deposit - Case Study

Abstract

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine hydrogen sulphide concentration emitted from the mine extracting copper ore, to evaluate potential adverse health effects to the population living in four selected villages surrounding the exhaust shaft. MATERIALS: Maximum measured concentration of hydrogen sulphide in the emitter is 286 µg/m³. Maximum emission calculated from the results of determinations of concentrations in the emitter is 0.44 kg/h. RESULTS: In selected villages hydrogen sulphide at concentrations exceeding 4 µg/m³ was not detected in any of the 5-hour air samples. In all locations, the estimated maximum 1-hour concentrations of hydrogen sulphide were below 1 µg/m³, and the estimated mean annual concentrations were below 0.53 µg/m³. CONCLUSION: Any risk to the health of people in the selected area is not expected. As indicated by the available data on the threshold odour, the estimated concentrations of hydrogen sulphide may be sensed by humans.