Oral Exposure to Heavy Metals in Children’s Products and Risk Assessment of Ingestion |
경구노출을 통한 어린이용품 중 중금속류 노출 및 위해성 평가 |
심기태1, 노샘1, 송기봉2, 김일규1, 석광설1, 김동훈1 |
1국립환경과학원 2화학물질안전원 |
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Abstract |
In this study, we evaluate the levels of 6 heavy metals (barium, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, and nickel) in domestically distributed children's products. We particularly focus on estimating the risk of oral exposure caused by the sucking behavior of 6-month and older infants. Our research shows that the levels of cadmium and lead in paint-coated toy products, relative accessories, and picture books exceeds domestic safety standards. Concentration of cadmium and lead is highest in the case of paint-coated toy products and accessories.
The highest concentrations of cadmium, chromium, copper, and lead are observed in clay toys as the result of transferred amount due to the sucking action. Risk evaluation of direct ingestion of heavy metals shows the possibility of adverse effects caused by cadmium, lead, and nickel in accessories. In case of nondiets, the risk of oral toxicity was evaluated as being hazardous from cadmium and copper in clay toys. On comparing domestic and overseas regulatory standards, it was found that some substances exceeded the recommended standards. Most of these products are unauthorized products and their production must be regulated.
This study can be used to reference data for prevention of child health hazards through the assessment of potential hazard level of heavy metals in child products. |
Key Words:
Toy, Heavy metals, Bioaccessibility, Hazard index |
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