Identification of sources of non-dietary exposure of children to selected heavy metals in Sosnowiec

The aim of study was to identify places that may pose a threat to children’s health, due to the high concentration of heavy metals in the top layer of soil on which they spend their time actively. The analysis covered soil samples taken from playgrounds and sports fields in Sosnowiec. In the mineralized samples, the content of lead, cadmium and zinc was determined using optical emission spectometry. Soil contamination in the studied recreation areas is very diverse. From among selected recreational facilities, over 70% is characterized by heavy metals in concentrations exceeding the limit values, regulated by the Regulation of the Minister of the Environment. The highest concentrations of Cd, Pb and Zn were recorded at the level more than 2000% higher than the permitted values. The research showed the necessity of chemical control of the materials used in the construction of recreational places in order to reduce the exposure of children and teenagers using playgrounds and sport fields to heavy metals in non-dietary way.