NICOTINE, RSP, AND CO2 LEVELS IN BARS AND NIGHTCLUBS

Vapor phase nicotine and respirable suspended particle (RSP) concentrations were measured in bars and nightclubs as indicators of exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). The CO2 concentrations were continuously monitored to provide a gross indication of ventilation adequacy, and occupant activities were observed. Results showed higher nicotine and RSP concentrations than have been reported for other indoor environments. Levels of ETS-related constituents varied widely between different nightclubs, taverns, and neighborhood pubs, depending on type of establishment, occupancy levels, amount of smoking, and ventilation adequacy. Mean nicotine concentrations were 58-mu-g/m3, 46.6-mu-g/m3, and 38.6-mu-g/m3 for nightclubs, taverns and neighborhood pubs, respectively. Mean RSP concentrations were 151-mu-g/m3, 93-mu-g/m3, and 95-mu-g/m3. The higher ETS-related concentrations were associated with elevated CO2 levels, the highest occupancy levels, and cigarette consumption. In all establishments, CO2 concentrations exceeded the 1 mL/L criterion for acceptable indoor air quality used in ASHRAE Standard 62-1989.