Environmental Distribution of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Fire Stations: High- Risk Surfaces in Vehicles and Personal Protective Equipment

This study investigates polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in fire stations and identifies key exposure sources in vehicles and personal protective equipment (PPE). A total of 121 wipe samples were collected from indoor spaces, vehicles, and PPE surfaces in three fire stations in South Korea. Fire station surfaces exhibited significantly higher PAH concentrations than commercial office controls, with median total PAH (Σ ₁₇ PAHs) levels 69 times higher in fire vehicles (p < 0.001), 26 times higher in the vehicle bay (p = 0.044) and PPE cabinet (p = 0.044), and 24 times higher in fire offices (p = 0.003). Among vehicles, fire survey vehicles showed the highest Σ ₁₇ PAHs contamination, particularly on floors (p = 0.021, 0.012). PPE contamination was highest on the outer boot ankles, followed by gloves and boot soles. Notably, the inner surfaces of firefighting pants and face shields had PAH levels comparable to their respective outer surfaces (p > 0.05), suggesting contaminant infiltration. High-molecular-weight PAHs (HMW-PAHs) were more prevalent on vehicle floors and boot surfaces, indicating significant exposure risks. These findings underscore the urgent need for improved contamination control measures, including routine decontamination of vehicles and PPE, enhanced PPE design to minimize pollutant ingress, and targeted policy interventions to safeguard firefighter health.