Analysis of Suspended Particulate Matter in a Conventional Seed Spices Cleaning and Grading Industry: A Case Study of Unjha Vicinity in Gujarat, India

A large number of seed spices (Cumin, Fennel, Coriander, Fenugreek etc.) cleaning-grading units are situated in Gujarat and Rajasthan. In-plant study was performed in such a cleaning-grading industry located at Unjha (Gujarat) in collaboration with Centre for Research on Seed Spice (SDAU), Jagudan, Mehsana. Apprehension for wellbeing of workers of such dust/ suspended particulate matter (SPM) generating industries are growing with time. SPM samples were collected using standard High Volume Sampler and these samples were analyzed for their respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) and total SPM concentration (µg/m3). The highest concentration of RSPM (< 10 micron) inside the plant was found to be 20 x103 µg/m3, while the highest SPM concentration level was 168x103 µg/m3. The average particle size of SPM was 1.96 µ to 9.43 µ while that of RSPM was 1.7 µ. The Ambient air quality norms prescribed by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for industrial areas limit these values to 100 µg/m3 (SPM) and 60 µg/m3 (RSPM). Such highly polluted in-plant atmosphere of seed spices cleaning-grading industry may cause severe health problems, leading to respiratory diseases among the workers. In order to protect the health of workers engaged in these industries, it is suggested to install the electrostatic precipitator (ESP) device and retrofitting of existing equipment (such that dust levels are within permissible limits) may be considered.