Assessing the effects of exhaust emissions on air quality in fishing vessels from the Iskenderun Bay, Türkiye

This study aims to evaluate air quality for ship crew members due to exhaust emissions, focusing on measuring carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels. The research methodology involved conducting on-site evaluations and air quality measurements aboard selected vessels using advanced sensors, resulting in a comprehensive dataset of over 1000 emission values from 10 vessels. This orientation causes harmful gases like CO and CO₂ to accumulate on the deck and in the crew's living and working areas, significantly increasing health hazards. Results show that during operations such as maneuvering and gear setting, CO levels can reach critically high values, with averages of 1.85 ppm on the deck during maneuvering for Purse Seine vessels and 1.45 ppm during gear setting for Trawl vessels. CO₂ levels were notably influenced by human activity and confined spaces, with the highest emissions recorded in the mess hall during cruising for Purse Seine vessels (701 ppm) and in the wheelhouse during gear dropping for Trawl vessels (581 ppm). The findings highlight a significant health risk to ship personnel, especially when exhaust outlet systems face against the wind direction. The study also explored the impact of various exhaust systems on gas emissions, revealing that the 'Wet' system, which introduces water into the exhaust process, generally results in lower average CO and CO₂ emissions. However, this system can lead to higher peak levels, suggesting variable efficiency in exhaust gas dilution with water. The research uncovers critical variations in air quality aboard fishing vessels, particularly concerning exhaust emissions.