Coke Oven Emissions

Steel mill coke ovens and by‑product recovery operations; emissions can drift into nearby neighborhoods [1][5].

Breathing workplace or downwind air, and getting soot on skin, hair, or clothing (including take‑home dust) [3][4].

Classified as a known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1; NTP). Linked to lung cancer, skin changes, chronic bronchitis, and respiratory irritation [1][2][3].

Coke oven and maintenance workers, people living near coke plants, smokers, and those with existing lung disease; children and pregnant people may be more sensitive [2][3][4].

At work, use enclosures/ventilation, wear assigned respirators, and follow hygiene—shower/change before going home and wash work clothes separately. In communities, follow local air alerts, limit outdoor time during releases, close windows, and use HEPA filtration if available; avoid smoking [3][4][5].