Heavy metals identification and exposure at workplace environment its extent of accumulation in blood of iron and steel recycling foundry workers of Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

The determination of heavy metals in blood is an important occupational environmental toxicology screening procedure. The aim of study was to determine the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr and Ni in blood samples of iron and steel foundry workplace exposed workers under routine clinical laboratory conditions. The method was employed for the quantitative determination of lead, cadmium, chromium and nickel in workplace environment particulate matter blood samples from iron and steel foundry workers and in unexposed controls. The results indicate that lead, chromium and nickel levels of the exposed workers are significantly higher those of the controls. Nickel Concentration (µg/L) in high P value=0.0306 and Chromium Concentration (µg/L) in P value=0.0295in worker population as compared to controls. Lead showed highest Absorption concentration in serum from particulate matter to Serum 47.3(µg/L). Absorption concentration of nickel in serum 16.5(µg/L) was lower than lead observed in worker’s population. Absorption concentration of cadmium and chromium in serum from particulate matter -152(µg/L) observed very low. The results also show the need for immediate improvements in workplace ventilation and industrial hygiene practices.