Background/aim Due to lack of PM monitoring process in Ukraine the aim of this work was to obtain information on the actual concentrations of PM₁₀ and PM_2,5 in one of the Ukrainian cities with the population under coal power plant exposure.

Methods Definition of air pollution by PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 was conducted in the seven points located in operation zone of the TPP which were selected according to the algorithm including relief, infrastructure, meteo data.

The study was conducted throughout the 2015 as a result it was managed to get the average annual concentration. Measurements of PM_2,5 and PM₁₀ concentration levels in the ambient air carried out using portable handheld analyzers Con.Tec Personal Dust Monitor PM₁₀-PM_2.5-PM₁ (Italy).

Measurements were carried out at the height of 1.2 to 1.8 metres from the ground in the human breathing area. Gathered measurements in real-time mode were conducted within one hour with an average of 1 min for 3 sequences per day.

Results As a result of the research, it has been established that:

• concentrations of PM₁₀ were determined in the range of 11 to 67 μg/m³, PM_2.5 – from 4 to 47 μg/m³. In this case, the excess of the recommended by the WHO levels of averaged concentrations PM10 and PM2.5 in the ambient air observed in 43% of measurements especially in the autumn–winter heating period;

• every 10 µg of concentration above normative increases the death rate by 0.6%. Accordingly, in the worst scenario with a concentration of 67 μg/m³ the mortality rate may increase by 2.82%.

Conclusion Based on the foregoing, conclusions can be drawn on the need for implementation and expansion of monitoring programs measurements of particulate matter (PM₁₀ and PM_2,5) in the ambient air of Ukraine settlements. Mandatory review and approval of hygienic standards for PM10 and PM2.5, in accordance with Directives 2008/50/EU, 2001/80/EU, recommendations and requirements of WHO.