Residents in both communities showed similar rates of illness, disease, chronic conditions, lung function, neurocognitive function, as well as exposure to contaminants. Fort McMurray is experiencing rapid industrial and population growth. Significant support was also received from the Northern Lights Regional Health Authority, Fort McKay First Nation, Fort McMurray Environmental Association and the community at large. These monitors measured specific air contaminants volunteers were breathing during their daily work, leisure and routine activities. The Independent Research Team A local and international team of 23 scientists designed the health study, conducted the research and wrote the report.
Sulphur dioxide .
The average personal exposure level for Fort McMurray residents was 0.87 micrograms per cubic metre of air, compared to the Lethbridge average of 0.21 micrograms per cubic metre of air. Although the level is higher in Fort McMurray, the exposure level in both communities is very small. The median level of nitrogen dioxide at the ambient stations was 10.8 micrograms per cubic metre of ambient air compared to daily guidelines of 206. 0 micrograms per cubic metre. The average personal exposure level for Fort McMurray residents was 15.9 micrograms per cubic metre of air, compared to the Lethbridge average of 17.7 micrograms per cubic metre of air. The median level of ozone recorded at the ambient stations was equal to the Alberta Environment guideline of 50 micrograms per cubic metre.