This study on landscapers' occupational exposures found significant overexposure to noise and respirable crystalline silica (RCS), especially during hardscaping tasks, despite existing engineering controls. Eighty workers at varied sites were monitored, showing noise levels frequently exceeding safety limits, while CO levels remained safe. Fuel-powered tools produced more noise and CO compared to battery-powered versions. Engineering controls could reduce RCS exposure, but additional protection might be necessary.

The research by Barbara M. Alexander and colleagues examines landscapers' exposure to noise, carbon monoxide, respirable dust, and respirable crystalline silica across 11 worksites. Most workers faced noise levels above safe limits, especially with fuel-powered tools versus battery-powered ones. Although CO overexposure was not observed, RCS overexposure was common in hardscaping tasks. The study emphasizes the need for engineering controls and protective measures to reduce these occupational risks.

The article addresses the environmental and health issues of gas-powered leaf blowers, which emit significant pollutants and produce disruptive noise affecting communities and wildlife. A MASSPIRG report highlights their carbon emissions, equivalent to pollution from 135,000 cars in Massachusetts in 2020. Many cities, alongside advocacy groups like Quiet Communities, are pushing for a shift to quieter, electric models. Restrictions are increasing, with California set to ban new gas-powered tools next year.

This podcast episode discusses the health and environmental impacts of gas-powered lawn equipment, focusing on emissions from two-stroke engines and noise pollution. Hosts and guest experts, pediatricians Dr. Elliot Krane and Dr. David Axelrod from Stanford University, highlight how these small engines generate significant pollution, comparable to driving a Ford F150 truck over long distances. The episode explores health implications, particularly on children, and suggests electric or manual alternatives. It encourages community actions for cleaner air and advocates for policies to transition away from gas-powered tools.

This study compares noise from gas-powered leaf blowers (GLBs) and battery-powered leaf blowers (BLBs), revealing significant differences in sound levels and impact on community health. GLBs are found to be much louder, particularly in low-frequency noise, which can transmit over long distances and through home windows, causing greater disruption than BLBs. The study suggests that transitioning to BLBs can mitigate health risks posed by GLBs' noise and emissions, advocating for policy changes to prioritize public and worker health.

The article by Stuart Silverstein and Anne Boiko-Weyrauch discusses the pollution and health risks from gas-powered leaf blowers, highlighting emissions of toxic substances like benzene and ultrafine particles that pose serious health risks, particularly to landscaping workers. Jamie Banks, founder of Quiet Communities, is mentioned for advocating against noise and emissions from such equipment. Efforts to switch to electric equipment are growing, supported by incentives in some regions to promote cleaner alternatives.

Noise measurements of 496 lawn mowers were made at 25 feet and at the operator’s ear between 2004 and 2017. In total, more than 2,000 different measurements were made. Several trends in lawn mower noise were observed. 1) Newer electric lawn mowers are significantly quieter and perform better than the older ones. 2) Newer gas powered walk mowers may be a decibel quieter. 3) Ride-on mower noise levels are pretty much unchanged and dependent on the size of the engine. 4) Compared to EPA noise measurements of mowers from 1973, very little progress has been made quieting mowers.

Small off-road engines (SORE), used primarily for lawn, garden, and other equipment, have a population in California comparable to that of passenger cars. Despite making up only 8% of SORE, commercial lawn equipment accounts for 20% of smog emissions during summer. Running a commercial mower for an hour emits pollution equal to driving a new car 300 miles, while a leaf blower equates to 1,100 miles. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has significantly reduced SORE emissions since 1990 but projects that by 2031, SORE emissions will double those of passenger cars. To address this, CARB aims for zero emissions from off-road equipment by 2035, with new standards and incentives in development.

The study by Jamie L. Banks and Robert McConnell examines emissions from gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment in the U.S., highlighting their significant contribution to air pollution, particularly VOCs and fine particulates from two-stroke engines. These emissions pose health risks, prompting calls for better reporting and policies to reduce impact and promote cleaner alternatives.

The San Luis Obispo Grand Jury report highlights the health hazards of two-cycle gasoline leaf blowers, which produce significant emissions, toxic exhaust, and high noise levels. These blowers emit pollutants equivalent to a car driven 200 miles in one hour. The report recommends a gradual phase-out in favor of cleaner alternatives like electric blowers or manual tools. The Grand Jury calls for county and city regulations to mitigate health risks and improve quality of life.

The Waste Management & Research Center evaluated VOC emissions from leaf blowers in Chicago under three policy scenarios: no ordinances, an aggressive ban during summer months, and a moderate policy promoting low-emission models. The aggressive scenario could cut emissions by over 64%, while the moderate scenario offers smaller, decreasing reductions. Localities like Wilmette and Oak Park have already enacted similar restrictions to address emissions and noise pollution.

The study examines emissions from small, handheld two-stroke engines used in lawn equipment, highlighting their release of toxic pollutants like carbon dioxide and hydrocarbons. Engine type significantly affects emissions, while fuel blend has little impact. These engines contribute 5-10% of total US emissions, suggesting a need for greater attention in air quality and exposure studies.

This study assessed emissions from 23 handheld 2-stroke engines from 1981-2003, revealing significant CO and HC reductions in phase-2 engines due to better design and catalytic controls. Using 10% ethanol fuel further cut HC and CO emissions. However, more oil in the fuel increased PM2.5 emissions. These findings confirm air quality improvements from updated emission standards.

The study by Richard Baldauf and colleagues examined exposure to air contaminants for operators of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment. Operators faced elevated levels of carbon monoxide (CO), PM2.5, and aldehydes, potentially exceeding health standards. The study highlights the risks associated with these tools and the influence of operator activity and environmental conditions on exposure levels, suggesting the need for increased awareness and regulation.