Occupational polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure assessment by job task in aluminum workers: a biomonitoring study

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the aluminum smelting industry poses a significant health risk.

Methods: The study was conducted in 2021 at an aluminum production facility in Sohar Aluminum, Oman, to assess task-specific (cleaning, electrical, mechanical, and operation) occupational exposure to PAHS from the paste plant department. The non-exposed workers at the medical center are chosen as the control group.  Personal air samples were collected using a 13-mm glass fiber filter (0.3 µm, SKC Inc.) housed in a Millipore Swinnase cassette. Post-shift urine samples were obtained across task groups during 8-hour shifts. PAHs and urinary 1-OHP levels were quantified through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Results: Airborne PAH concentrations ranged from 0.0 to 417.4 µg/m³. The mean urinary 1-OHP concentration was 7.46 µmol/mol creatinine (range: 0.0–40.9). Electrical and mechanical maintenance workers showed the highest urinary 1-OHP levels. A strong positive correlation existed between airborne PAH and urinary 1-OHP (r = 0.900, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Elevated PAH exposure was task-specific, with the highest levels in electrical and mechanical roles. Urinary 1-OHP proved effective for monitoring internal PAH exposure, underscoring the need for targeted exposure reduction strategies.