Abstract

Background: This work studied the occupational exposure of battery chargers and goldsmiths in Ibadan metropolis, South-west, Nigeria, to heavy metals and their possible health implications. The set-out objectives include evaluation of the health status, knowledge/attitude of artisans with respect to heavy metals. Also, to determine the levels of some heavy metals and aluminium in soil and blood samples of the artisans as indices of probable toxicosis. It is hoped that outcome of this study will increase the awareness of the artisans to the risk of heavy metals poisoning associated with their work and the need to take precautionary measures.


Materials and Methods: Questionnaire was administered to artisans to garner information on demographic parameters, use of protective gears and assessment of health status. Blood samples were collected from volunteered battery chargers and goldsmith for heavy metal analysis. Soil samples were collected from surrounding of the artisans' workshop and analysed for heavy metals.


Results: The concentration of heavy metals in the collected samples was determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Results showed that the concentration of the soil around the workshop of battery chargers and goldsmiths were as follows. Lead (Pb) 74.63-195mg/kg, Cadmium (Cd) 6.38-5.75mg/kg, Chromium (Cr) 35.18-117.4mg/kg, Nickel (Ni) 36.5-31.5mg/kg, Copper (Cu) 92.05-37mg/kg. Heavy metals concentration in the blood of battery chargers and goldsmiths ranges were: Lead (Pb) 0-1.86mg/L, Cadmium (Cd) 0.03-0.032mg/L, Chromium (Cr) 0.105-2.221mg/L, Nickel (Ni) 0.13-0.124mg/L, Copper (Cu) 0.053-5.34mg/L.


Conclusion: The goldsmiths had higher exposure to heavy metals and this can pose toxicological risk to them. It is suggested that goldsmiths and battery chargers should take safety precutions.


Keywords: Blood, Goldsmith, Battery charger, Metals, Soil, Toxicity