Non-Carcinogenic Lead Inadvertent Occupational Health Risk Assessment in Select Instructional Laboratories in Moi University and University of Eldoret, Kenya

Abstract

Settled surface indoor dust is of environmental importance since it can act as a medium of human exposure to heavy metals. Universities’ laboratories are involved in varied activities some of which may expose Pb to workers. The study aimed at assessing occupational non carcinogenic risks arising from Lead (Pb) exposure in indoor settled dust. Dust samples were collected according to standard procedure and Pb levels determined by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Mean Pb levels ranged from 344.89±12.267- 754.438±76 mg/kg, which were mostly above WHO/FAO: EU: U.S. EPA (100 mg/kg: 300 mg/kg: 400 mg/kg) recommended standards. Non-carcinogenic risk for Pb HQ results in the entire study area were found to be significantly (95 % (CI); p < 0.05) above unit for women and 70% for men. However, overall it was observed that there was no variation in lead non carcinogenic risk between men and women (p = 0.8515) in the entire study area. The results indicate that there were potential occupational Pb non-cancer risks. Recommendation is made for periodical non-cancer medical checks to ensure workers’ safety.