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Assessment of internal exposure risk from metals pollution of occupational and non-occupational populations around a non-ferrous metal smelting plant

 

Assessment of Internal Exposure Risk from Metals Pollution Around Non-Ferrous Metal Smelting Plants

Introduction

Non-ferrous metal smelting plants play a critical role in the global economy by extracting and refining metals like copper, zinc, lead, and aluminum. However, these operations also release harmful pollutants, including heavy metals, into the surrounding environment. Both occupational (workers) and non-occupational (nearby residents) populations are at risk of internal exposure to these metals, which can have severe health implications. This article delves into the assessment of internal exposure risks, highlighting the sources, pathways, health effects, and mitigation strategies.

Sources of Metals Pollution

Non-ferrous metal smelting plants release pollutants through several pathways, including:

  1. Emissions to Air: Smelting processes emit fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and heavy metals like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As).

  2. Wastewater Discharges: Industrial wastewater can contain dissolved metals, which contaminate nearby water bodies.

  3. Solid Waste Disposal: Improper disposal of slag and other residues can lead to leaching of metals into the soil and groundwater.

Exposure Pathways

People are exposed to metals pollution via the following routes:

  1. Inhalation: Workers and nearby residents inhale metal-laden particulates and gases.

  2. Ingestion: Metals can contaminate crops, water, and fish, leading to ingestion.

  3. Dermal Absorption: Direct contact with contaminated soil, water, or air can lead to absorption through the skin.

Health Effects of Metals Exposure

Heavy metals are toxic to humans, even at low levels of exposure. The health impacts depend on the type of metal, exposure duration, and individual susceptibility.

  1. Lead (Pb): Causes neurotoxicity, developmental delays in children, and cardiovascular issues.

  2. Cadmium (Cd): Linked to kidney damage, bone demineralization, and cancer.

  3. Arsenic (As): Can cause skin lesions, lung cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.

  4. Zinc (Zn): While essential in small amounts, excessive exposure can lead to gastrointestinal issues and disrupt copper metabolism.

Risk Assessment Framework

A comprehensive risk assessment involves the following steps:

  1. Hazard Identification: Identifying metals of concern and their toxicological profiles.

  2. Exposure Assessment: Measuring concentrations of metals in air, water, soil, and food, and estimating intake through various pathways.

  3. Dose-Response Assessment: Evaluating the relationship between exposure levels and adverse health effects.

  4. Risk Characterization: Quantifying the probability and severity of health risks for different populations.

Mitigation and Prevention Strategies

To minimize internal exposure risks, it is essential to adopt a combination of regulatory, technological, and community-based measures:

  1. For Occupational Populations:

    • Provide personal protective equipment (PPE).

    • Conduct regular health screenings for workers.

    • Install advanced air filtration systems in smelting facilities.

  2. For Non-Occupational Populations:

    • Monitor air, soil, and water quality regularly.

    • Relocate residential areas further away from smelting plants if necessary.

    • Educate communities about reducing exposure (e.g., washing vegetables grown near smelting plants).

  3. For Industry:

    • Implement cleaner production technologies to reduce emissions.

    • Ensure proper treatment and disposal of waste.

    • Comply with national and international environmental standards.

Conclusion

The assessment of internal exposure risks from metals pollution around non-ferrous metal smelting plants underscores the urgent need for proactive measures. Protecting both occupational and non-occupational populations requires a collaborative effort involving industries, governments, researchers, and communities. By addressing the sources and pathways of exposure and adopting effective mitigation strategies, it is possible to minimize health risks and ensure a safer environment for all.

28th Edition of International Research Awards on Science, Health and Engineering | 27-28 January 2025|Amsterdam, Netherlands


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