Air pollution in Boston bars before and after a smoking ban
2006
Air Pollution in Boston Bars Before and After a Smoking Ban
Sample size: 7
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): James L Repace, James N Hyde, Doug Brugge
Primary Institution: Tufts University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the air quality benefits of a smoke-free workplace law in Boston?
Conclusion
Boston's smoking ban eliminated the risk of secondhand smoke exposure in bars, leading to significant reductions in air pollution levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Pre-smoking-ban RSP levels averaged 179 μg/m3, which was 23 times higher than post-ban levels of 7.7 μg/m3.
- Post-ban particulate air pollution levels were in the Good AQI range, except for one venue with a defective fryer.
- Post-ban carcinogen levels in all pubs were lower than outdoor levels.
Takeaway
When Boston banned smoking in bars, the air became much cleaner, making it safer for everyone inside.
Methodology
Real-time measurements of respirable particle (RSP) air pollution and particulate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PPAH) were conducted in 7 pubs before and after the smoking ban.
Limitations
One pub had a non-SHS air quality problem that was excluded from the analysis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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