Exposure Assessment of Heavy Metals in Electronic Waste Recycling Plant

• Main Author: 賴政瑄
• Other Authors: 賈台寶
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/36558500799161442400

碩士 === 弘光科技大學 === 職業安全與防災研究所 === 99 === Due to limited space in Taiwan, recycling and reuse for nature resesources become necessary. However, there is lack of information related to occupational exposure to hazards in electronic waste recycling plant. Improper procedure may result in exposure to dusts generated from electronic wastes that might contain heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr). They are carcinogenic and cause health problems. The objective of this study is to evaluate metal exposure in electronic waste recycling plant through biological and environmental monitoring. 29 workers in an electronic waste recycling plant were recruited in this study. Collection of personal data (questionnaire survey), urine samples and air samples were completed. The respirable particulate matters were sampled by using a sampler (Gilian GilAir5 Tri-Mode Air Sampler, Gilian SKC filter, MCE with Support Pad, 0.8μm, 37 mm). The metal levels (Pb, Cd, and Cr) in air samples and in urine samples of workers were analyzed using ICP-OES(ICP-OES Optima 2100DV). The results showed that the metal content in respirable particulate matters was in compliance with the regulation. Pb, Cd, and Cr levels in air samples of production line was higher than that of the administration office, but there was no significant difference. The mean Cd-urine levels of 2 employees with drink habit were higher than the BEI value. The mean Cd-urine level of technical staffs had significantly positive correlation with the working period (p=0.013). The mean Cd-urine level of all workers had significantly positive correlation with age (p=0.0011). The levels of Cd-urine were significantly higher for the workers with drinking habit (p=0.0425). The mean urine-Pb and urine-Cr of smokers were higher than non-smokers, but with no significance. According to the IRIS risk model analysis, the cancer risk (after 25 years exposure period to Cd in workplace) is slightly higher than the acceptable value of 1×10-6 in the electronic waste recycling plant. The HI (hazard index) was less than one based on the levels of air-Pb. According to this study, it is suggested that continuous educaton of good personal hygiene habit, appropriate use of personal protection equipment and smoking hazards are still needed. The results of this study can be used as a reference for tailoring hygiene program by both related plants or government agents. The goal is to track the records of hazards control in order to protect the workers in the electronic waste recycling plant. Keywords: electronic waste recycling, heavy metal, occupational exposure