Aggregate risk assessment for multi-route exposure to hazardous chemicals caused by chemical accidents, with a focus on toluene

• DOI: 10.1007/s44273-024-00039-8
• Publication Date: 2024-08-20T16:21:26Z
• Authors: Ji-Yun Jung; Si-Hyun Park; Ji-Eun Moon; Jun-Heon Yoon; Sung-Won Yoon; Cheol-Min Lee
• Keywords: Leakage accident; Multi-route exposure; 02 engineering and technology; Environmental technology. Sanitary engineering; Environmental sciences; Health impact; Aggregate exposure; 0202 electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering; GE1-350; Chemical accident; TD1-1066; Risk assessment

Abstract Chemical accidents significantly impact environmental and human health. However, studies investigating the impacts of such have primarily focused on single-route exposures, potentially underestimating extent damage. This study aimed to conduct an aggregate risk assessment for multi-route exposure hazardous chemicals ensure systematic rational management health residents exposed chemical accidents, considering behavior a from accident within media. Drawing upon real that occurred in Siheung, Gyeonggi-do, 2019, leakage 500 L toluene over hour was assumed. Employing multimedia dynamics model, time-dependent concentrations across various media were calculated, average daily dose (ADD), hazard quotient (HQ), index (HI) each route included derived. Health risks deemed present if calculated HQ HI values exceeded threshold 1. The results indicated highest ADD among 0–9 age group, with inhalation registering all routes. no significant observed, both not exceeding approach is proposed as effective preliminary evaluation method assessments areas affected by accidents. Graphical