Casino Air Quality Survey

by the Wizard2009-05-05 11:26:12 (edited 2009-05-05 17:39)

Currently, I am engaged in a project focused on analyzing the air quality within casinos. The aim is to highlight the health risks that casino air presents, particularly to non-smoking guests and staff. At this point, it's unclear what the final outcome of my research will be, or whether I will pursue it further. For now, I intend to present my findings as effectively as I can on my own.

I spent approximately ten minutes in each casino using a hidden air quality monitoring device. Dylos DC1100 Equipped with a battery pack, I’ve managed to disguise the monitor in a way that still permits airflow. Throughout the survey, I moved around the main gaming areas, trying to cover all sections that typically experience heavy foot traffic. I intentionally avoided more isolated areas like high-limit rooms or poker sections. If there was a designated non-smoking area, I dedicated time there proportionate to its size within the casino.

My initial plan was to evaluate each casino on the same weekday and during a particular time range. Unfortunately, due to scheduling conflicts and the fact that this project is not financially motivated, I had to adopt a more flexible approach, resulting in a variety of days and times for the surveys.

I faced a dilemma about whether to reveal the names of the casinos in my findings. If I were to sum up my personal philosophy in just three words, they would be 'knowledge is beneficial.' I believe that unrestricted access to information could significantly better our world. In that light, it seems appropriate for me to mention specific establishments. Emil Faber That said, given that my assessments were conducted at differing times throughout the week, I kept track of when each evaluation occurred. However, it wouldn’t be fair to publicly shame casinos that received unfavorable pollution scores simply because I surveyed them during peak hours. While I could include disclaimers, I am mindful that many readers might overlook those and focus solely on the data. I have struggled with this uncertainty for three weeks. Ultimately, my goal is to make a compelling argument regarding the generally smoky and hazardous quality of casino air. Trust your senses to distinguish the bad from the truly awful.

The DC1100 device measures airborne particles of varying sizes. According to the user guide, the types of particles detected fall into two categories.

Small particles include fine dust, bacteria, mold spores, smoke, smog, and more.

Larger particles consist of coarse dust, pollen, larger bacteria, plant spores, and even dust mite droppings.
The data reveals that the count of larger particles in casinos is quite similar to that found in two non-smoking businesses I examined. However, the count of smaller particles is significantly elevated. It should be quite clear to anyone with a nose that tobacco smoke is the culprit. To avoid complicating matters, I will emphasize only the counts for smaller particles.

The user manual and the device itself provide a reference point for interpreting the readings of small particle counts.

How severe is 'poor' air quality? How does exposure to such conditions relate to a reduced lifespan? I'm not sure. Unfortunately, the manufacturers of the DC1100 don’t offer much clarification. Their health disclaimer states:

1000+ = Very poor
350-1000 = Poor
100-350 = Fair
50-100 = Good
25-50 = Very Good
0-25 = Excellent

While the DC1100 detects airborne particulate levels, it cannot ascertain the health implications for any individual. Various factors contribute to respiratory issues and allergic reactions. The DC1100 is not intended for medical treatment or condition management. Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.

The organization Americans for Nonsmokers' Rights delves into the specific health implications for casino workers. I encourage you to review their findings in their report titled

Secondhand Smoke and Gaming Venues. Nonetheless, the subsequent table displays the counts of small particles from various casinos alongside non-casino establishments, including the corresponding dates, days, and times when samples were collected. .

The next table condenses the small particle counts categorized by building type.

I believe the data is quite telling. Allow me to conclude with this thought:

"The right to swing my fist ends where the other man's nose begins."

- Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.
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