Determination of Hair and Serum Metal Levels in Petrol Station Workers

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine some metals in hair and serum samples of petrol station workers. A total of 50 petrol station workers (exposure group) and 50 office workers (control group) were included in the study. Li, Ni, V, Tl, Ti and Sr levels in hair samples and Sr, Ti and V levels in serum samples were measured using the ICP-OES instrument. Li, Ni, V, Tl, Ti and Sr levels in hair samples were found to be significantly higher in the exposure group than in the control group. Ti level in serum samples was found to be significantly higher in the exposure group than in the control group. However, Sr and V levels in serum samples did not differ significantly between the two groups. These results show that petrol station workers are exposed to these toxic metals. For this reason, it may be recommended that petrol station workers should undergo regular biomonitoring and healthcare screening.