In Uralsk, after a fire at a solid waste landfill that took more than a week to extinguish, an excess of maximum permissible concentrations of hazardous and highly hazardous substances has been recorded, reports the website infohub.kz.
The fire at the landfill occurred on July 27, after which a state of emergency was declared in the city. According to the TV channel, the smoldering dump was extinguished only a few days ago. Then, specialists from the city's sanitary and epidemiological control conducted air measurements at the border of the sanitary protection zone. Along with doctors, specialists from the laboratory of the ecology department visited the site.
The analyses showed an excess of maximum permissible concentrations of carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide. All these substances are considered hazardous, especially hydrogen sulfide. Toxic gases can cause severe oxygen starvation, affect the nervous system and respiratory tract, leading to poisoning and a threat to life.
"Laboratory studies of atmospheric air quality were conducted in the residential area, as well as according to the wind rose. Currently, all work is under control. Additional laboratory air studies will also be conducted," said Gauhar Duisegalieva, head of the city's sanitary and epidemiological control department.
Meanwhile, sanitary doctors recommend that residents of areas closest to the landfill turn off air conditioners, tightly close windows, and try to spend less time outdoors.