Aggregate risk assessment of VOCs exposure in residents near Busan’s Sinpyeong and Jangrim industrial complexes

Abstract This study aimed to assess the aggregate health risks associated with multi-pathway exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the ambient air near the Sinpyeong and Jangrim industrial complexes in Busan, South Korea. As part of efforts to evaluate the necessity of reducing air pollutant emissions and improving air quality management, five residential areas with high population density near the industrial complexes were selected. VOCs concentrations were measured, and aggregate risk assessments were conducted considering inhalation and dermal exposure pathways. The results of the assessment indicated that the carcinogenic substances (chloroform, 1,2-dichloroethane, benzene, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, ethylbenzene, and 1,3-butadiene) exceeded the risk level of 1 × 10 −5 , suggesting potential adverse health effects. In the case of non-carcinogenic substances, benzene, tetrachloroethylene, m,p-xylene, and o-xylene surpassed the risk level of 1, also indicating possible health risks. This study is significant in that it identifies the necessity of aggregate risk assessments by comparing the individual and aggregate risks of VOCs and identifying major exposure pathways. Based on the findings, it is deemed necessary to establish management strategies focusing on the primary exposure pathways to protect the health of residents living near the Sinpyeong and Jangrim industrial complexes. Furthermore, the results have potential value in informing broader air pollutant emission control and air quality management strategies for the entire Saha-gu district of Busan. Graphical Abstract