Assessment of toxic metal exposure among workers in building construction and measurement of workers' knowledge levels

In this study, the aim was to determine toxic metal exposure among workers in building construction and to assess workers' knowledge levels through a survey. Within the scope of our study, hair and urine samples were collected from 81 individuals at 12 different building construction sites within the boundaries of Kocaeli Province. Additionally, face-to-face surveys were conducted with the 81 workers. Analyses were performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and all data were evaluated using the SPSS package program. The average Pb urine levels of the workers included in the study were found to be 66.12±32.93 µg/L, with 12 individuals exceeding the limits. The average Pb hair levels were calculated as 4.17±2.00 µg/g, with 31 individuals exceeding the limits. The average Hg hair levels were calculated as 1.10±0.96 µg/g, with 24 individuals exceeding the limits. Elevated As hair levels were found in 4 individuals. Additionally, elevated Cd levels were found in 12 individuals, Co in 4 individuals, Ni in 9 individuals, Cr in 6 individuals, and Al in 2 individuals in terms of urine levels.