Investigation of multi metal toxicity on biological systems and evaluation according to occupational safety criteria

In this study, single toxicity and multiple toxicity effects of exposure to Cr (VI), Ni (II) and Cu (II) have been demonstrated as additive, synergistic or antagonistic on biological system. These heavy metals were studied on the growth curve of Vibrio Harveyi which was analyzed as a biological system and EC50 values were found out as 2.5 g / ml, 4 g / ml and 6 g / ml for Cr (VI), Cu (II) and Ni (II) respectively. The single toxicity sequence was determined as Cr (VI) > Cu (II) > Ni (II). As multiple heavy metal toxicities were examined, Ni (II) + Cu (II) showed a synergistic, Cu (II) + Cr (VI) showed a slightly additive and Ni (II) + Cr (VI) showed an antagonistic effect on the same biological system. The toxicity sequence was obtained as Ni (II) + Cu (II)> Cu (II) + Cr (VI)> Ni (II) + Cr (VI). For the purpose of examining the work safety dimension, a survey was conducted to the workers who expose the single and multiple heavy metals in the workplaces. According to the results of the survey evaluated according to employee statements, toxicity of single heavy metals was determined as Cr (VI) > Ni (II) > Cu (II). Our answers to the questions about heavy metal awareness indicate that training needs to be renewed. With the sharing the result of this study, the level of awareness was aimed to be increased by the officials and employees.