Heavy Metal Exposure in Industrial Workers of Punjab

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 03 | Page : 1 7
    By

    Stephen Monday,

  • Atul Khajuria,

  • Eric Kwasi Elliason,

  • Gagan,

  • J. Samuel Kamanda,

  1. Teaching Assistant, Department of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India
  2. Director, Department of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India
  3. Teaching Assistant, Department of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India
  4. Teaching Assistant, Department of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India
  5. Teaching Assistant, Department of Allied Health Sciences, Desh Bhagat University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, India

Abstract

Background: Particularly for those in sectors such textiles, metallurgy, and electronics, heavy metal exposure in industrial environments is a major health issue. A range of negative health effects can result from metal exposure including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and nickel (Ni), including neurological, pulmonary, and renal ones. There is little information available on the degree of heavy metal exposure industrial workers in Punjab, India experience. Objective: Using a sample of 953 respondents, to evaluate the frequency of heavy metal exposure and related health consequences among Punjabi, Indian industrial workers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken from January to June 2024, with 953 industrial workers recruited via stratified random sampling from several workplaces in Punjab. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to evaluate blood and urine samples for Pb, Cd, Cr, As, and Ni concentrations. Medical tests evaluated respiratory, renal, and neurological health; workers answered structured interviews to compile demographic and occupational data. SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis including descriptive statistics, chi-square testing, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Comprising 70% men, the sample’s mean age was 35.4 years. Both blood and urine samples revealed elevated heavy metal concentrations; Pb, Cd, Cr, As, and Ni levels varied between sectors. Workers in metallurgy had the highest blood lead levels – 18.5 µg/L. Reduced heavy metal levels were linked to consistent PPE use. Health outcomes revealed that 35% of workers experienced symptoms including respiratory distress, neurological problems, and renal dysfunction; those exposed to greater levels of Pb were more likely to have respiratory symptoms (26% in those with ≥15 µg/L vs to 14% in those with <15 µg/L). Conclusion: Heavy metal exposure is widespread among industrial workers in Punjab, with elevated concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, As, and Ni detected in both blood and urine samples. Inadequate PPE usage exacerbates exposure levels, and workers with higher heavy metal concentrations are at increased risk for respiratory, neurological, and renal symptoms. The study emphasizes the need for improved occupational health policies, including better PPE usage, regular health screenings, and stricter environmental regulations to mitigate the health risks posed by heavy metal exposure.

Keywords: Heavy metals, industrial workers, exposure, Punjab, lead, cadmium, chromium, arsenic, nickel, health outcomes, personal protective equipment (PPE)

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology ]

How to cite this article:
Stephen Monday, Atul Khajuria, Eric Kwasi Elliason, Gagan, J. Samuel Kamanda. Heavy Metal Exposure in Industrial Workers of Punjab. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2025; 15(03):1-7.
How to cite this URL:
Stephen Monday, Atul Khajuria, Eric Kwasi Elliason, Gagan, J. Samuel Kamanda. Heavy Metal Exposure in Industrial Workers of Punjab. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2025; 15(03):1-7. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjot/article=2025/view=233328


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 03
Received 27/03/2025
Accepted 25/08/2025
Published 02/12/2025
Publication Time 250 Days
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