Mass use electric generators in Ukraine, due to systematic Russian attacks on the power system and blackouts, contributes to air pollution and can negatively affect people's health.
After all, during work diesel engine emits toxic combustion products - exhaust gases containing, in particular, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons and aldehydes, reports SaveDnipro.
The authors emphasized that in Exhaust gases are very harmful, but their components have different effects on the human body. For example, carbon monoxide combines with red blood cells instead of oxygen, which leads to oxygen starvation and even death. Nitrogen oxides cause severe coughing, vomiting and headache, and upon interaction with the moist surface of the mucous membrane, they turn into acids and lead to pulmonary edema.
"The more diesel generators operate during a blackout, the worse the air quality will be. It is exhaust gases that make the main contribution to pollution, but it is uneven and depends on the location of the installations," the material emphasized.
The authors emphasized that the impact of exhaust gases on humans is higher in cities, as there is a high level of background man-made pollution. In addition, due to the architecture of the streets, air cannot circulate freely, which is especially characteristic of cramped and confusing neighborhoods in older parts of cities. During blackouts, Ukrainians are advised to avoid such areas and monitor air quality.
Eco-activists also advise to follow the rules for the safe use of generators:
- install the generator so that the distance to the nearest surface (walls, windows, etc.) is at least 6 meters, in order to avoid a fire due to the heating of the installation;
- use and refuel the generator exclusively outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fire;
- place them as far as possible from windows and crowded streets, so as not to expose yourself and others to danger.
As EcoPolitic reported before, eco-activists called on Ukrainians who dismantle destroyed houses to use special clothes, a mask and glasses to protect yourself from asbestos.
