Heavy Metals Found in the Breathing Zone, Toenails and Lung Function of Welders Working in an Air-Conditioned Welding Workplace.

This study intended to assess the exposure to metal elements in the welder's breathing zone and toenail sample. Heavy metal concentration was analysed by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The lung function test was also conducted and analysed using statistical approaches. Chromium and manganese concentrations in the breathing zone exceeded the permissible exposure limit stipulated by Malaysian regulations. A similar trend was obtained in the concentration of heavy metals in the breathing zone air sampling and in the welder's toenail. Although there was no statistically significant decrease in the lung function of welders, it is suggested that exposure control through engineering and administrative approach should be considered for workplace safety and health improvement. PMID: 28849717 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics - Category: Occupational Health Tags: Int J Occup Saf Ergon Source Type: research