Assessment of air quality in Sept-Iles : global analysis of the situation derived from historical data and a measurement campaign conducted in 2009

This report presented a global analysis of air quality in Sept-Iles, Quebec. It was based on historical data as well as data derived from a 2009 air quality site characterization study. The industrial activity in Sept-Iles includes mining and metallurgy which can affect regional air quality. The analysis showed that on an annual basis, air quality in Sept-Iles is comparable to urban or suburban areas. However, for short periods of 12 hours or less, concentrations of particulates can be very high. The potential pollution sources include industrial emissions, wood burning emissions and exhaust gases from motor vehicle traffic. Atmospheric dispersion modeling provided ambient air measurement data for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons emissions; benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes (BTEX) concentrations; dust; and odours. Sufficient data was gathered to present a complete report on air quality. The report showed that the Iron Ore Company (IOC) is a potential source of pollution and that mitigation measures are needed. This document also described the standards used to determine air quality and to minimize the effects on ecosystems and public health. 15 refs., 16 tabs., 11 figs.