Heavy metal concentration in particulate matter and health risk assessment in primary schools / Siti Nur Azyan Azhar

Background Information: Children spend most of their time in classroom and it is considered as a second home for them. Due to that reason, they are highly susceptible to be exposed to various airborne pollutants in indoor air. The purpose of this study is to determine the heavy metal concentration in particulate matter in and to calculate the health risk assessment through inhalation exposure in primary schools. Methodology: Ten primary schools located around Puncak Alam and Meru area were selected. Three classrooms for each school were randomly selected for sampling the particulate matter using air sampling pump equipment. Particulate matter is one the airborne pollutant which helps in carrying heavy metals and other hazardous element that might give an adverse effect on health for those who are exposed to it. The heavy metal that is being measured in this study are Lead (Pb), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), and Cadmium (Cd). Results: This study shows that there is a presence of heavy metal in the sampled classrooms of the schools. The difference of heavy metal concentration between schools might due to the environmental factors surrounding the schools as well as the activities involved. This study indicates that Fe has the highest concentration followed by Zn, Mn and Pb. Conclusion: In conjunction with the presence of heavy metal composition on particulate matter, it may serve an adverse health effect towards the children. Frequent housekeeping and maintained good ventilation will help in improving indoor air quality in the classroom.