• Journal of Environmental Health Sciences
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• v.45 no.5
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• pp.465-473
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• 2019

Objectives: A variety of industries handling hazardous chemicals emit odorous substances. Based on the emission characteristics of major odor substances from the results of hazardous chemical substance emissions, we will define basic data for improving the management methods of odorous substances. Methods: A survey of hazardous pollutant emissions for 2010-2016 was conducted through the Pollutant Release and Transfer Register homepage. Eight kinds of designated odor substances (ammonia, hydrogen sulfide, dimethyl disulfide, acetaldehyde, styrene, toluene, xylene, methyl ethyl ketone) provided the study subjects. The status of chemical accidents for the target substances was analyzed using the Chemistry Safety Clearing-house system. Results: From 2010 to 2016, it was found that more than 30% of businesses that emitted odorous substances accounted for more than 50% of the total emissions of the eight substances. Emissions of xylene, toluene, methyl ethyl ketone, and ammonia were found, in that order, and they made up more than 90% of the total emitted. By region, about 70% of odorous substances were emitted in the top-four regions: Gyeongsangnam-do Province, Ulsan, Gyeonggi-do Province, and Jeollanam-do Province. Conclusion: Recently, the amount of chemical emissions has been continuously increasing, including those that can cause odor. Odorous substances can be a serious risk to the lives of local residents. Systematic research is needed for the health protection of residents.