Health implications of unconventional energy production and use
An evaluation of potential occupational and public health aspects of geothermal, biomass, solar, and synfuel energy technologies has been performed. Identification of potentially hazardous processes of each fuel cycle has been made, as well as development of quantitative evaluation when necessary data were available. Occupational exposure to hydrogen sulfide gas occurs near all geothermal sites and whenever organic matter decomposes anaerobically. Respiratory damage has occurred to laborers in geothermal fields, and farm workers have been killed when employed near agitating liquid manure systems. However, the most frequent and severe reported injury to geothermal workers is dermal exposure to caustic sludges produced by H/sub 2/S abatement systems. Principal health and safety considerations of biomass pathways are directly related to the diffuse nature of solar energy fixation by photosynthesis and subsequent transfer to animal food chains. A significant potential for occupational injuries and fatalities exists. Of all biomass systems evaluated, direct burning of solid fuels presents the greatest public health risk. Unique hazards associated with solar energy include occupational exposures to Cd and Ga during manufacture of photovoltaic cells, and exposure to microwaves during development and operation of a satellite power system. Public health exposures to indoor air pollutants may increase in weatherized homes that are passively heated and cooled. Potential occupational hazards during production of synfuels from coal and oil shale include dermal and inhalation exposures to carcinogens, teratogens, and caustic agents. The epidemiologic history of synfuel workers is reviewed and mitigation strategies for future development are recommended.
- Research Organization:
- Health and Safety Research Division Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-26
- OSTI ID:
- 6990006
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-801210-
- Journal Information:
- Alternative Energy Sources; (United States), Journal Name: Alternative Energy Sources; (United States) Vol. 9; ISSN ALESD
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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BIOMASS
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HAZARDS
HEALTH HAZARDS
OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY
PUBLIC HEALTH
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RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
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SOLAR ENERGY
SYNTHETIC FUELS