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1

Health risks of Polish firefighters related to their service – literature narrative review

Dudziński Łukasz, Jaśkiewicz Filip, Czyżewski Łukasz, Gałązkowski Robert

Zeszyty Naukowe SGSP / Szkoła Główna Służby Pożarniczej

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2026

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Nr 97 (tom 2)

33--47

EN

The fire service plays a key role in ensuring public safety. The working environment of a firefighter is a burden on health due to numerous risk factors: terrain, weather, chemical, radiological, and biological factors, as well as mental stress. This narrative review aims to analyse the health risks faced by Polish firefighters, with particular emphasis on psychophysical factors, and to assess the effectiveness of the protective measures in place. A review of the literature available in PubMed, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus databases was conducted, including publications from 2020 to 2025. The selection was made under the PRISMA guidelines. The review included 55 publications, exclusively peer-reviewed scientific articles (Polish and foreign). Firefighters are exposed to many non-obvious, immediate, and long-term health risks that require a systematic approach and the implementation of more effective prevention measures.

2

Ilościowa ocena ryzyka w systemach zbiorowego zaopatrzenia w wodę

Rak Janusz R.

Instal

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2026

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nr 4

24--29

PL

Ocena ryzyka stanowi podstawę zarządzania systemami technicznymi w aspekcie bezpieczeństwa. Klasyczna ilościowa definicja ryzyka opiera się na iloczynie prawdopodobieństwa zajścia zdarzenia niepożądanego P oraz związanych z nim strat C. Przyjmując, że C = 1 dla zejść śmiertelnych, ryzyko można rozpatrywać w kategoriach prawdopodobieństwa wystąpienia zdarzenia niepożądanego. Celem pracy była analiza wartości liczbowych ryzyka z uwzględnieniem miliryzyka (mr = 10-3), mikroryzyka (μr = 10-6) i nanoryzyka (nr = 10-9). W pracy odniesiono się do ryzyka zdrowotnego związanego z korzystaniem z wodociągu, z uwzględnieniem zejść śmiertelnych, przewlekłego uszczerbku na zdrowiu oraz dolegliwości gastrycznych. Przedstawiono także wartości ryzyka indywidualnego i grupowego. Praca ma charakter przeglądowy i obejmuje standardy w ilościowym zakresie oceny ryzyka związanego z zaopatrzeniem w wodę przeznaczoną do spożycia przez ludzi. Analiza ryzyka zdrowotnego może zostać wykorzystana podczas realizacji Planu Bezpieczeństwa Wody.

EN

Risk assessment is the basis for managing technical systems from a safety perspective. The classical quantitative definition of risk is based on the probability of an undesirable event P multiplied by the associated losses C. Assuming C = 1 for fatalities, risk can be expressed as the probability of an undesirable event occurring. The aim of the study was to analyze the numerical values of risk, taking into account milli-risk (mr = 10-3), micro-risk (μr = 10-6), and nano-risk (nr = 10-9). The health risk associated with water supply use is addressed, including fatalities, chronic health impairment, and gastrointestinal complaints. Values for both individual and group risk are also presented. This paper is a review and covers standards for quantitative risk assessment related to water intended for human consumption. Health risk analysis can be used during the implementation of the Water Safety Plan.

3

Micro- and nanoplastics in drinking water: the review

Bodzek Michał, Pohl Alina

Archives of Environmental Protection

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2026

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Vol. 52, no. 2

67--92

EN

Plastic pollution in water is becoming increasingly alarming due to the annual increase in global plastic production. Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) have been detected in drinking water sources and tap water, raising concerns about the effectiveness of drinking water treatment plants and the public health of people who consume tap or bottled water. This article presents a systematic review of the available knowledge on the global occurrence of MNPs in drinking water sources and treated water, tap water, and/or bottled water. Data on the occurrence and properties of MNPs (polymer type, shape, and size) are presented. It also discusses the effectiveness of MNPs removal in various unit processes used for drinking water treatment, including coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, sand and membrane filtration, adsorption, advanced oxidation processes, and disinfection. Attention is also drawn to the health risks posed by MNPs present in drinking water. Currently, there still appear to be gaps in research on MNPs removal in drinking water treatment. This article therefore discusses the potential challenges, strategies, and research needs related to the occurrence and removal of MNPs in unit processes used in drinking water production.

PL

Zanieczyszczenie wody tworzywami sztucznymi staje się coraz bardziej niepokojące ze względu na coroczny wzrost globalnej produkcji tworzyw sztucznych. Mikro- i nanoplastiki (MNP) wykryto w źródłach wody pitnej i wodzie z kranu, co budzi obawy dotyczące skuteczności stacji uzdatniania wody pitnej oraz zdrowia publicznego osób spożywających wodę z kranu lub butelkowaną. Niniejszy artykuł przedstawia systematyczny przegląd dostępnej wiedzy na temat globalnego występowania MNP w źródłach wody pitnej i wodzie uzdatnionej, wodzie z kranu i/lub wodzie butelkowanej. Przedstawiono dane dotyczące występowania i właściwości MNPs (rodzaj polimeru, kształt i rozmiar). Następnie omówiono wiedzę na temat skuteczności usuwania MNPs w różnych procesach jednostkowych stosowanych do uzdatniania wody pitnej, w tym koagulacji, flokulacji, sedymentacji, filtracji piaskowej i membranowej, adsorpcji, zaawansowanych procesach utleniania i dezynfekcji. Zwraca się również uwagę na zagrożenia dla zdrowia, jakie mogą stwarzać MNP obecne w wodzie pitnej. Obecnie nadal wydają się istnieć luki w badaniach nad usuwaniem MNP w procesie uzdatniania wody pitnej. Ponadto, omówiono potencjalne wyzwania, strategie i potrzeby badawcze związane z występowaniem i usuwaniem MNP w procesach jednostkowych stosowanych w produkcji wody pitnej.

4

Seasonal fluctuations in groundwater fluoride concentration and health risk assessment : Tolon District, Northern Ghana

Nogara Ezeldin I., Anim-Gyampo Maxwell, Ganiyu Shaibu A.

Journal of Water and Land Development

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2025

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no. 65

55--64

EN

Groundwater contamination with fluoride is a major global issue, contributing to 65% of endemic fluorosis cases worldwide. This study evaluates the seasonal variations in groundwater fluoride concentrations and their connection to health risks in the Tolon District, Ghana. A total of ninety-seven groundwater samples were examined over two seasons to assess fluoride (F-) concentrations. Levels of F- varied from undetectable levels to 1.30 mg∙dm-3 and had an average of 0.24 mg∙dm-3 during the rainy season. In the dry season, it varied from undetectable levels to 2.08 mg∙dm-3 and had an average of 0.36 mg∙dm-3. Significant spatial and temporal variations were observed, with lower fluoride levels in the northern part of the area and higher levels in the southern region during both seasons. Approximately 84% and 74% of samples fell into group I (optimal for dental health), and 16% and 21% into group II (moderate risk of dental fluorosis) during rainy and dry seasons, respectively. Additionally, 5% of the samples during the dry season fell into group III (high risk of dental fluorosis). Hazard quotient (HQ) values for fluoride varied widely, with higher risks observed in children compared to adults during both seasons. This study highlights that children in the Tolon district face greater risks of fluorosis than adults, emphasising the need for targeted mitigation strategies. The research contributes significantly to addressing the pressing global issue of water quality and public health, offering insights that can guide both immediate interventions and long-term sustainability efforts in affected regions.

5

Mapping the vulnerability of groundwater and assessing the health risks of deficiencies in essential elements in the Lukunga watershed of Kinshasa city

Matungila Juvenal Juve, Djoudar Hallal Dahbia Née, Aziez Ouahiba, Mbudi Clement, Makanzu Fils, Khelfi Mohamed El Amine

Geomatics, Landmanagement and Landscape

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2025

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no. 4

167--186

EN

The increasing reliance on boreholes in Kinshasa reflects the ongoing inadequacy of the public water supply, raising concerns about the management of groundwater and the potential health risks connected to aquifer contamination. This study assesses the vulnerability of groundwater in the Lukunga watershed using the GOD method, complemented by a health risk analysis focusing on deficiencies in essential minerals: calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Hazard quotient (HQd) was applied to evaluate the risk of chronic exposure. Physico-chemical data from 23 water samples (September 2023) supported the generation and validation of vulnerability maps. Integration the GOD model and HQd approach offers a cost-effective and scientifically robust framework, especially suited for data-limited urban settings. The GOD model provided a rapid classification of aquifer sensitivity, while HQd refinement incorporated hydrochemical data to improve exposure risk estimates. The results revealed that nearly 30% of the watershed falls under the ‘very high’ vulnerability category, particularly in downstream areas and along major rivers. The main source of pollution is linked to domestic waste due to poor urban sanitation. Although chemical contamination remains low, the predominant health risk arises from insufficient Ca and Mg levels, with average concentrations of 1.19 mg/L and 1.07 mg/L, respectively. These suggest very soft water and an insufficient daily intake, especially for vulnerable populations. Elevated HQd values indicate potential long-term health consequences, including an increased risk to bone and cardiovascular conditions. This study highlights the urgent need for improved monitoring of groundwater and mineral supplementation strategies to protect public health and ensure the sustainable management of Kinshasa water resources.

PL

Rosnące uzależnienie od odwiertów w Kinszasie odzwierciedla utrzymującą się niewystarczalność publicznego zaopatrzenia w wodę, co budzi obawy dotyczące zarządzania wodami gruntowymi i potencjalnych zagrożeń dla zdrowia związanych z zanieczyszczeniem wód gruntowych. Niniejsze badanie ocenia wrażliwość wód gruntowych w zlewni Lukunga za pomocą metody GOD, uzupełnionej analizą ryzyka zdrowotnego skupiającą się na niedoborach niezbędnych minerałów: wapnia (Ca) i magnezu (Mg). Do oceny ryzyka przewlekłego narażenia zastosowano współczynnik zagrożenia (HQd). Dane fizykochemiczne z 23 próbek wody (wrzesień 2023 r.) posłużyły do wygenerowania i walidacji map narażenia. Integracja modelu GOD i podejścia HQd oferuje opłacalne i solidne naukowo ramy, szczególnie przydatne w warunkach miejskich o ograniczonej ilości danych. Model GOD umożliwił szybką klasyfikację wrażliwości wód gruntowych, podczas gdy udoskonalenie HQd uwzględniało dane hydrochemiczne w celu poprawy szacunków ryzyka narażenia. Wyniki ujawniły, że prawie 30% zlewni należy do kategorii „bardzo wysokiego” zagrożenia, szczególnie w obszarach położonych niżej i wzdłuż głównych rzek. Głównym źródłem zanieczyszczeń są odpady komunalne z powodu złej higieny miejskiej. Chociaż zanieczyszczenie chemiczne utrzymuje się na niskim poziomie, dominującym zagrożeniem dla zdrowia jest niedobór wapnia i magnezu, ze średnimi stężeniami odpowiednio 1,19 mg/l i 1,07 mg/l. Sugerują one bardzo miękką wodę i niewystarczające dzienne spożycie, szczególnie w przypadku grup wrażliwych. Podwyższone wartości HQd wskazują na potencjalne długoterminowe konsekwencje zdrowotne, w tym zwiększone ryzyko chorób kości i układu sercowo-naczyniowego. Niniejsze badanie podkreśla pilną potrzebę lepszego monitorowania wód gruntowych i strategii suplementacji minerałami w celu ochrony zdrowia publicznego i zapewnienia zrównoważonego zarządzania zasobami wodnymi Kinszasy.

6

Postural Risk Assessment in Wood Measurement: A Follow-Up Study To Explore New Measurement Options And To Check The Repeatability of Outcomes When Using Digital Options

Borz Stelian Alexandru, Marcu Marina Viorela, Iordache Eugen

Drewno : prace naukowe, doniesienia, komunikaty

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2025

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Vol. 68, nr 215

Art. no. 195843

EN

Technological development and digitalization have brought new opportunities in many industrial sectors, including forestry. Wood measurement is an important process which in many regions is shifting from manual methods to the use of digital tools, and the validation of new approaches is necessary to ensure the sustainability of the sector. This study was set up mainly as a follow-up attempt to validate results concerning postural risks when using digital tools to measure logs. In addition, the study explores the postural implications of a new measurement option, namely scanning of wood loaded into trucks. Generally, the digital measurement options involving the use of smartphones and professional LiDAR scanners generated lower postural risks, results which are consistent with and validate previous findings. Although the studied measurement options displayed statistically significantly different profiles in terms of postural conditions, manual wood measurement remains challenging in terms of postural risk. From a postural assessment perspective, transition to digital tools in wood measurement seems to be a sustainable option in the long run, but it will require the further development of existing algorithms so as to be able to extract useful information from the collected data.

7

Ocena ryzyka zdrowotnego związanego z narażeniem na metale obecne w osadach dennych

Tytła Malwina

Laboratorium - Przegląd Ogólnopolski

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2024

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nr 1

41--46

PL

Osady denne to integralny element wszystkich ekosystemów wodnych. Stanowią one miejsce, w którym kumulowane są różne zanieczyszczenia, w tym także te potencjalnie toksyczne, jak metale. Zanieczyszczenia te mogą być unieruchamiane w osadach dennych jezior, cieków czy też zbiorników wodnych na długi czas. Stan ten może przyczyniać się do negatywnego oddziaływania tych pierwiastków zarówno w wymiarze ekologicznym, jak i zdrowotnym. Dlatego też, poza systematycznym monitorowaniem zawartości metali w osadach dennych, konieczne jest również przeprowadzanie oceny ryzyka zdrowotnego, związanego z obecnością tych pierwiastków.

EN

Bottom sediments are an integral element of all aquatic ecosystems. They are places where various pollutants, including potentially toxic ones, such as metals, are accumulated. These pollutants can be immobilised in the bottom sediments of lakes, streams, or water reservoirs for a long time. This condition may contribute to the negative impact of these elements, both in ecological and health aspect. Therefore, in addition to systematic monitoring of metal content in bottom sediments, it is also necessary to assess health risks associated with the presence of these elements.

8

Contribution of mine water and uranium ore rocks to the 222Rn-induced radiation dose received by the mine workers in a low-ore grade underground uranium mine, India

Beg Imran Athar, Sahu Patitapaban

Journal of Sustainable Mining

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2024

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Vol. 23, iss. 2

177--184

EN

More than 50% of the radiation dose received by underground mine workers is mainly due to the inhalation of radon (222Rn) gas and its decay products in an underground mine working space. Monitoring and controlling of 222Rn exhalation in the underground mine working play a vital role in minimizing the radiation risk hazards to the mine workers. This study discusses the contribution of mine water and uranium ore to 222Rn activity concentration in mine air and its health risk assessment. The annual effective radiation dose (ERn) due to inhalation of 222Rn for mine workers is estimated at 0.10 mSv/y. Furthermore, the estimated excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) and radon-induced lung cancer per million per person (RnLCC) is found to be 0.3 x 10-3 and 0.002 x 10-6. The estimated results of ERn and RnLCC due to the inhalation of 222Rn are well within the prescribed limits of the international regulatory agencies.

9

The Problem of Health Risk Resulting from the Presence of Pharmaceuticals in Water Used for Drinking Purposes: A Review

Wysowska Ewa, Wiewiórska Iwona, Kicińska Alicja

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2024

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Vol. 25, nr 5

244--256

EN

The article addresses the problem of the presence of selected pharmaceuticals in waters by determining the state of scientific knowledge. The sources of drug residues in the aquatic environment were characterized and the most important information was collected on the toxicity measures of the most commonly used drugs, including NLPZ: (1) non-steroidal analgesics and antipyretics (diclofenac, ibuprofen, phenazone, acetaminophen, propyphenazone, indomethacin, ketoprofen, pentoxifylline, and phenacetin), (2) pharmaceuticals used to reduce blood lipid levels (bezafibrate, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil), (3) drugs used in cardiac conditions, in particular those used to lower blood pressure and treat arrhythmia (atenolol, sotalol, metoprolol), (4) antibiotics (trimethoprim, clarithromycin, amoxicillin, sulfamethoxazole, piperacillin, erythromycin, sulfadimidine, dehydrate-erythromycin, 4N-Acetylsulfamethoxazol), (5 )drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (naproxen, fenoprofen), and (6) anticonvulsants, drugs used in neuropathic disorders and tranquilisers (carbamazepine, diazepam, primidone, oxazepam, temazepam). The authors reviewed research papers dealing with the indicated issue, taking into account: (1) research on the presence of pharmaceuticals in water, (2) studies on the health and environmental risk of drinking water for the presence of drug residues and their mixtures, (3) research on the effectiveness of water treatment in terms of pharmaceuticals. Gaps in scientific knowledge have been demonstrated, which are a hint for the directions of future research work.

10

Ecological and health risk assessment of soil heavy metal contamination along National Highway 107 in China

Jin Xiaohua, Tong Xinru, Hua Shunheng, Xu Yang

Ecological Chemistry and Engineering. S

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2024

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Vol. 31, nr 2

155--175

EN

This study investigates soil heavy metal contamination behind the green belts along National Highway 107 in China. Soil samples were collected from both sides of the highway to determine the concentrations of heavy metals such as copper, cadmium, chromium, lead, and zinc. The distribution patterns, ecological risks, and health hazards associated with these heavy metals were analysed. In order to provide more sample examples and data support for soil heavy metal pollution control. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was employed to detect the concentrations and speciation of these five heavy metals in the soil samples. The Geo-Accumulation Index method, the Nemerow pollution index method, and a health risk assessment model were used to evaluate the ecological and health risks of heavy metal pollution adjacent to the highway. Results indicated that: (1) The concentrations of Cu, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Zn in the soil decreased with the increasing number of protective forest layers, highlighting the significant role of protective belts in impeding the migration of heavy metals from the highway. (2) In terms of pollution assessment, the Geo-accumulation index method revealed prominent Cd contamination, the Geo-accumulation index of Cd peaked at 1.95 indicating a moderate to mild pollution level overall. Conversely, the Nemerow index method suggested a medium to extremely high risk of soil heavy metal Cd contamination. Specifically, the peak value of Cd single-factor pollution index in the study area reached 5.78, and the mean value of its Nemerow index (P) was 4.67. (3) In health risk assessment, it was found that children are more susceptible to heavy metal threats. The non-carcinogenic risk indices of all five heavy metals were less than 1, implying minimal risk. However, the total carcinogenic risk index for Cr ranged between 10–6 and 10–4, posing a certain level of carcinogenic risk to humans.

11

Heavy Metals – Definition, Natural and Anthropogenic Sources of Releasing into Ecosystems, Toxicity, and Removal Methods – An Overview Study

Jadaa Waleed, Mohammed Hamad

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2023

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Vol. 24, nr 6

249--271

EN

The constant discharge of large quantities of toxic substances due to human activities has led to a global environmental issue. Numerous industrial sectors’ effluents, which include coal-based power plants, mineral extraction activities, electroplating processes, as well as battery manufacturing, release metallic ions towards different ecosystems, such as Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), and Chromium (Cr). Heavy metals pose a significant danger to living organisms, humans, and environments because of their properties, mainly severe toxicity, and strong accumulation ability. Metallic ions are not subject to breakdown towards final components when contrasted with organic contaminants, which are significantly impacted by biochemical and chemical decomposition. Consequently, eliminating these elements has been regarded as a significant task within the water treatment sector. The purpose of this article is to analyze the literature related to heavy metals in terms of different issues. The heavy metals expression is explained. The natural sources and human activities responsible for releasing metallic ions into the environment are comprehensively discussed. In addition, heavy metals toxicity and potential risks to humans and different ecosystems are included. Various approaches for removing heavy metals from industrial wastewater, along with their associated advantages and drawbacks, are further evaluated.

12

Assessment of Heavy Metal Inhalation Risks in Urban Environments in Poland: A Case Study

Majewski Grzegorz, Klik Barbara, Rogula-Kozłowska Wioletta, Rogula-Kopiec Patrycja, Rybak Justyna, Radziemska Maja, Liniauskienė Ernesta

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2023

|

Vol. 24, nr 11

330--340

EN

In recent years, heightened air pollution characterized by elevated levels of particulate matter and potentially toxic metals has become a prominent concern, particularly in densely populated urban areas, which may pose a threat to the health of the population. The present study aims to conduct a comprehensive health risk assessment of heavy metals exposure via inhalation, with a focus on submicron particles (PM1), in two major cities of Poland - Warsaw and Zabrze. These cities were selected due to their distinct levels of urbanization and industrialization. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks assessment was performed for children and adults. The carcinogenic risk was evaluated for As, Cd, Cr(VI), Ni, Pb, and Co, classified as carcinogens, the non-carcinogenic risk evaluation encompassed a broader range of metals, including V, Mn, Cu, Zn, and Mg, aiming to comprehensively understand health exposure. The results highlight elevated carcinogenic risk in Zabrze, primarily linked to industrial activities and ongoing emissions. Notably, Ni, As, and Cr(VI) exceed safe limits, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Moreover, non-carcinogenic risks reveal Zabrze’s heightened respiratory health risks, compared to Warsaw. Despite Warsaw’s lower non-carcinogenic risk values, both cities recorded Ni and Mg concentrations exceeding safe limits. This indicates that Zabrze faces higher health risks from heavy metal exposure due to ongoing pollution sources. In contrast, Warsaw, the capital city and a major urban centre, demonstrates better air quality but still requires continuous monitoring and pollution control measures.

13

Evaluation of the Concentration and Health Risks of Phosphates and Nitrates of a High Andean River

Sáez-Huamán Wilfredo, Contreras-Lopez Eliana, Portuguez-Maurtua Marcelo, Sánchez-Araujo Víctor, Palomino-Pastrana Pedro, Escobar-Soldevilla Mabel, Inostroza-Ruiz Luis Alberto, Llahuilla Quea Jose Antonio

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2023

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Vol. 24, iss. 9

249--258

EN

In developing countries, river monitoring is very limited. Despite environmental and health problems, there is a paucity of information regarding the contaminants phosphates and nitrates. Thus, concentration and health risks, of phosphates and nitrates of the Ichu river waters, in Huancavelica, Peru, were evaluated. Sampling was carried out at six different points. Important water quality parameters were analyzed, such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO) and electric conductivity (EC). The results revealed that the phosphate and nitrate varied between 0.475 to 0.575 mg/L and 11.10 to 14.00 mg/L, respectively. The concentration of phosphates and nitrates was 0.520±0.02 mg/L and 13.10±0.48, respectively. The Ichu River water had the quality that corresponded to its category, when compared to the permitted limits of the Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) for water. It did not present contamination according to the nutrient contamination index and the health risk was from chronic low intake. Besides, it presented a moderate relationship between nitrate and phosphate, due to the low concentration of phosphates during the dry season. What is new about this research is the approach to potential health risks of exposure to nitrates and phosphates, in a high Andean river in Huancavelica, Peru.

14

Metale ciężkie w osadach ściekowych a ryzyko zdrowotne

Tytła Malwina

Laboratorium - Przegląd Ogólnopolski

|

2022

|

nr 4

44--49

PL

Obecność metali ciężkich w wodach ściekowych może stanowić ograniczenie w stosowaniu ich do celów przyrodniczych. Dzieje się tak dlatego, że zawartość metali ciężkich jest jednym z głównych kryteriów ograniczających wykorzystanie osadów ściekowych do kondycjonowania i nawożenia gleb, jak również do rekultywacji i rewitalizacji terenów zdegradowanych w wyniku działalności człowieka. Należy również nadmienić, że procesy stosowane w oczyszczalniach ścieków nie gwarantują usuwania metali ciężkich, a jedynie sprawiają, że zanieczyszczenia te kumulują się w osadach ściekowych. Ze względu na fakt, że osady ściekowe stanowią cenne źródło materii organicznej oraz azotu, fosforu i potasu, niezbędnych do prawidłowego wzrostu roślin oraz poprawiających właściwości fizykochemiczne gleby, z powodzeniem stosowane są one w celach przyrodniczych. Jednakże należy pamiętać, że obecność metali ciężkich w osadach ściekowych wiąże się również z potencjalnym zagrożeniem, zarówno w aspekcie ekologicznym (wtórne zanieczyszczenie środowiska wodno-gruntowego), jak i zdrowotnym (toksyczne oddziaływanie na ludzi poprzez różne drogi wchłaniania). Biorąc pod uwagę możliwe zdrowotne skutki narażenia na toksyczne działanie metali ciężkich, zagadnienie to ma znaczenie priorytetowe.

EN

The presence of heavy metals in sewage sludge may limit their use for natural purposes. This is because the content of heavy metals is one of the main criteria limiting the use of sewage sludge for soil conditioning and fertilization, as well as for the reclamation and revitalization of areas degraded by human activity. It should also be mentioned that the processes used in wastewater treatment plants do not guarantee the removal of heavy metals, but only make these pollutants accumulate In the sewage sludge. Due to the fact that sewage sludge is a valuable source of organic matter as well as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are necessary for the proper growth of plants and improving the physicochemical properties of soil, they are successfully used for natural purposes. However, it should be remembered that the presence of heavy metals in sewage sludge is also associated with a potential threat, both in terms of ecology (secondary pollution of the water-soil environment) and human health (toxic effects on humans through various paths). Considering the possible health consequences of exposure to the toxic effects of heavy metals, this is priority issue.

15

Method of Assessing the Potential Risk to the Health of the Population During Recreational Water Withdrawal

Rybalova Olha, Malovanyy Myroslav, Bondarenko Оlexander, Proskurnin Oleg, Belokon Karina, Korobkova Hanna

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2022

|

Vol. 23, nr 5

81--91

EN

The use of polluted water bodies for recreation poses a risk of infectious diseases. This fact necessitates taking into account bacteriological indicators to determine the danger of recreational water use. The aim of the article was to develop a new method for assessing the potential risk to population health during recreational water use. A new method for assessing the potential risk to population health during recreational water use has been proposed, which combines the identification of potential risk according to chemical and bacteriological indicators. A new classification of water hazard levels according to the values of risk to population health has been developed. The value of the potential risk to the population health during the recreational use of 6 beaches in the urbanized territories of the city of Kharkiv and its suburbs (Ukraine) was obtained. It was established that bacteriological contamination has the probability of a very large impact on public health (hazard class 5). To compare the methods of assessing the risk to population health during recreational water use, the hazard index (NI) was determined according to the chemical indicators of the quality of water bodies in the city of Kharkiv. The use of the assessment of the potential risk to population health for the environmental regulation of the discharge of pollutants into a water body with wastewater is justified.

16

Assessment of Occurrence, Ecological and Health Risk of Heavy Metals in Agricultural Soil in the Hau Giang Province, Vietnam

Hong Tran Thi Kim, Dan Truong Hoang, Giao Nguyen Thanh

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2022

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Vol. 23, nr 9

61--71

EN

The study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of some heavy metals in agricultural soil in the Hau Giang province, Vietnam. The geographical accumulation index (Igeo), pollutant load index (PLI) and ecological risk index (RI) are used to assess the pollution levels and potential ecological risks due to the presence of heavy metals in agricultural soil. The results showed that the mean concentrations of Cu, Pb and Zn in the soil ranged from 16.25–40.32, 18.05–29.92 and 52.78–147.22 mg/kg, respectively, within the limits of QCVN 03-MT:2015/BTNMT. Cluster analysis showed that Pb originated from the process of using fertilizers, especially phosphate fertilizers in farming. Cu and Zn possibly share a common origin from the use of pesticides and fungicides in agricultural production. The Igeo value of Cu, Pb and Zn gradually increases in the order of Cu < Zn < Pb. The PLI (1.03–1.97) reflected that the soil in the study area is moderately polluted. The RI (14.80–25.33) represented a low potential ecological risk. In particular, position D3 had the highest level of pollution and risk among the study sites. Pb had the highest level of accumulation in soil with the highest single ecological risk factor; thus, measures should be taken to limit the source of Pb generation. The results of the study also indicated that ingestion route is the main exposure pathway by which heavy metals can be harmful to humans.

17

A Model-Based Approach to Risk Evaluation and the Assessment of Protection Provided by Water Intake and Treatment Systems

Wysowska Ewa, Kicińska Alicja

Journal of Ecological Engineering

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2022

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Vol. 23, nr 7

284--298

EN

This study presents an assessment of the protection provided by water intake and treatment systems against potential health risk to water consumers. To perform the assessment a case study was conducted involving modelling and risk assessment based on scenarios of decreasing water quality at the intakes (i.e. emergency situations). The study sites were two continuously operating water treatment plants in Southern Poland (CEE). The study material were the results of tests conducted in the years 2012–2019 on samples of water taken directly at the intakes and samples of treated water. The samples were used to determine the concentration of selected metals (Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn), organic pollutants (benzo(a)pyrene, benzene, acrylamide, epichlorohydrin, vinyl chloride and 1,2-dichloroethane) and bacteriological pollutants (Coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecali and Clostridium perfringens). The non-carcinogenic (HI) and carcinogenic (CR) hazard indexes were estimated based on the quality of water at the intake using linear regression models. The risk values obtained were compared with permissible values specified in the US EPA methodology. It was demonstrated that the concentrations of the xenobiotics analysed in treated water would have to increase 11 times in the case of adults and 29 times in the case of children before the risk level related to drinking water exceeded permissible values. In the least favourable exposure scenario modelled, assuming the presence of organic xenobiotics in potable water, the total HI amounts to only 10% of the permissible value in adults and 1.5% in children. The total CR calculated for the 3-times lower water quality did not exceed permissible values, which proves that the water treatment systems are safe.

18

Groundwater Quality Assessment for Human Drinking in Rural Areas, Al-Hoceima Province (Northern Morocco)

Mchiouer Fatiha, Boughrous Ali Ait, El Ouarghi Hossain

Ecological Engineering & Environmental Technology

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2022

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Vol. 23, iss. 3

138--147

EN

The aim of this study is to assess the quality of water for drinking in the rural area of the city of Al-Hoceima, in order to measure the health risks to which people who use it for their needs are exposed. A cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was carried out on 60 households selected randomly. Well and spring water samples (8 wells and 8 springs) were collected in November and December 2019 and analyzed according to the standard methods of water analysis. The survey indicated that water consumed by 80.00% of households does not receive any prior treatment. With the lack of a collective excreta and wastewater management system in the municipality, 99.00% of households have latrines, 50.00% of which are installed within 15meters of the water source. The bacteriological analyses indicate that all the sampled points are contaminated by fecal contamination germs. This poor quality may be due to various anthropogenic activities, and the presence of non-standardized septic tanks. Therefore, protecting and improving water sources must be accompanied by adequate measures of disinfection of these waters before their use.

19

Managing the dust degree – related risks in Valea Jiului collieries: a synthesis

Burdea Florin-Ionel, Moraru Roland-Iosif

System Safety : Human - Technical Facility - Environment

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2021

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Vol. 3, nr 1

139--151

EN

The paper aims to make a synthesis regarding the risks associated with the presence of industrial dust in the underground atmosphere of the coal mines. Thus, in the first part of it are presented relevant aspects regarding the health risk associated with the exposure to silica dust, as well as the flammability and explosiveness of the coal dust, in correlation with the mechanism of the explosion. The second part is dedicated to identifying and substantiating measures to combat the explosiveness of coal dust. In presenting the mentioned measures, the emphasis is placed on highlighting the scope and the specific advantages and disadvantages of each measure, with particular emphasis on the possibilities offered by the use of less employed techniques in mining operations in the Jiu Valley, such as it is, for example, the treatment of mining works with hygroscopic substances. The purpose of the authors is to offer the experts in the field of management of occupational safety and health in the mining industry an overview, in conjunction with specific information elements that facilitate the decision-making processes regarding the minimization of the hazards associated with the degree of coal dustiness in the Jiu Valley collieries.

20

Identification of health risks from harmful chemical agents - review concerning bisphenol A in workplace

Kapustka Katarzyna, Ziegmann Gerhard, Klimecka-Tatar Dorota, Ostrega Mateusz

Production Engineering Archives

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2020

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Vol. 26, Iss. 2

45--49

EN

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical used as an additive in conventional point-of-sale thermal paper receipts, in the production of many polycarbonate plastics, and epoxy resins lignin for food. BPA is xenoestrogen, a foreign compound that is not naturally produced in living organisms, but which acts similarly to natural 17-ß estradiol (natural estrogen). Due to its weak estrogenic activities, BPA exposure may influence multiple endocrine-related pathway, and is associated with prostate and breast cancer, neurobehavioral deficits, heart disease, and obesity. Furthermore, BPA may act as a DNA methylation agent and cause altered gene expression in the brain. Human exposure to bisphenol A is a matter of controversy. This review shows a potential risks in workplace resulting from contact with bisphenol A. The work presents the contribution of BPA exposure levels via dermal contact and the relationship between BPA exposure level and oxidative DNA damage.