The Sagamu cement factory, SW Nigeria: is the dust generated a potential health hazard?

The aim of this study was to assess the heavy metal content of the dust generated by the Sagamu cement factory and its attendant health hazards on the immediate environment, especially on the inhabitants of the area. A total of 25 samples were collected and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. Records of medical ailments associated with heavy metal toxicity were also compiled from the Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital situated in the town. The results for some of the selected heavy metals showed the following pattern: limestone: Cd (n.d.-1.7 ppm), Pb (42-48 ppm), Cu (3.0-11 ppm), Zn (7.0-53 ppm) and Ni (3.0-8.0 ppm); shale: Cd (0.3-1.1 ppm), Pb (17-22 ppm), Cu (2.0-11 ppm), Zn (17-147 ppm) and Ni (3.0-18 ppm); dusts: Cd (0.5-0.7 ppm), Pb (32-52 ppm), Cu (2-16 ppm), Zn (5-152 ppm) and Ni (2-17 ppm); soils: Cd (0.5-1.1 ppm), Pb (28-49 ppm), Cu (22-35 ppm), Zn (43-69 ppm) and Ni (13.0-17 ppm). High levels of heavy metals were found in the rocks and soils. We propose that the high levels of metals in the dust and soil were acquired from the raw materials used by the cement factory and from active industrial discharge from this same factory. Medical records and the current health situation of the local residents in the study area reveal that there have been increases in the prevalence of diseases linked to heavy metal toxicity in the environment, especially those related to dust generation.