Objective To investigate the impact of a lead-acid battery company on the surrounding soil and nearby pupils, and provide evidence for improving the environment and childhood lead poisoning prevention.
Methods Environmental samples at different distances upwind and downwind in the vicinity of a lead-acid factory were collected in accordance with relevant national standards. Medical examinations were carried out of 184 pupils at 2 nearby primary schools. Lead concentrations in environmental samples and pupils' blood were analyzed using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer.
Results The average lead contents in soil samples downwind were significantly higher than those in soil samples upwind (P<0.05). The excessive rate of lead concentrations in surface soil, soil of plant roots, and rapes were 1.75%, 9.68%, and 100.00%, respectively. The lead concentrations in soil of plant roots at 10 m and 50 m downwind sites exceeded the Grade II limit according to Environmental Quality Standard for Soils and reached mild pollution degree; the lead concentrations in the other soil samples were lower than the limit. The average blood lead level of pupils from school A (42.27μg/L) was significantly higher than that of school B (37.75μg/L) (P<0.05). Hemoglobin levels were negatively correlated with blood lead levels in the primary school pupils (P=0.013). No statistically significant differences in the blood lead levels were found between boys and girls. Blood lead levels were associated with pupils' anemia (P=0.032), but impacts on their vision, dental caries, and urine were not yet found.
Conclusion The lead-acid battery factory has caused pollution to the surrounding soil. Although no health impacts on the pupils at nearby schools are yet found, actions to effectively prevent and control lead pollution should be taken immediately.
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