Dylan and Sam Mr. Spangler P.7 Shoppe Air Dylan and Sam Mr. Spangler P.7

Research Question How do shop activities affect air quality? http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQk7EOrLhHaqqoHU5E0wo0Pm9jxSdA2jTxfep3J78fWqV8H58aXkQ:chicagofabrications.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/welder.jpg http://www.kilduffs.com/School_325_Baltimore_CalvertSchool_ShopClass.jpg

Background Information -Time spent in shop has made us curious about air quality. -PM 2.5 are small particles that can make the air hazy, and possibly cause health problems -PM 2.5 can come from various indoor activities. Possibly the shop activities. -The EPA short term standard is 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air. The long term is 15 micrograms per cubic meter of air.

Hypothesis We believe the PM 2.5 levels will rise above the safe EPA limits for long and short term, when the shop is in use.

Methods -We used the DusTrak to collect air quality data. -It was placed on high shelf overlooking the shop. -The controlled variable is the location of the DusTrak.

Time -We started the experiment on February 4th at 3:42 PM. It ended on February 7th at 1:00 PM. http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT-x2QjLKK5xATtaeOQO2eH2CsAHRl-hMdXR_XogCR8MWRxY8Im:cliparts.co/cliparts/8i6/5gk/8i65gkA5T.png

Photos

Results Max: 5.8 µg/m3 Min: <.035 µg/m3 Avg: ≅1.34 µg/m3

µg/m3 Time Elapsed

Conclusion It is apparent that the highest levels of PM 2.5 are way above the recommended safety limit. The average is still above the limit, and the minimum is right on the borderline. The tools used in the shop definitely produce harmful amounts of PM 2.5. This may seem dangerous for the students, but it’s important to realize that safety precautions are taken. Such as safety masks and eye protection.

Back to Hypothesis It’s safe to say that our hypothesis was accurate. The PM 2.5 levels went above the EPA limit. http://i.qkme.me/3sh8sv.jpg

Improvements-Data Collection -Specific tools analyzed -More controlled environment -Limited people allowed inside -Less door openings -Multiple DusTraks in use -Longer time -Activities might have been non-typical.

Improvements-Safety -Limit extended use of machinery. -If shop appears hazy, air it out. -Safety Masks, Eye Protection. http://www.universaldrycleaningsolutions.com.au/store/images/P/safety-masks-respirators-839191.jpg

References "Fine Particles (PM 2.5) Questions and Answers." Fine Particles (PM 2.5) Questions and Answers. N.p., Feb. 2011. Web. 30 May 2015. "Frequent Questions." EPA. Environmental Protection Agency, 6 Feb. 2014. Web. 30 May 2015. PM 2.5 PowerPoint

Acknowledgements Thank You Mr. Spangler for helping us with data collection, and this project. Thank You Mr. Boyle for cooperating with our project.