ASSESSMENT OF LEAD AND CADMIUM SOIL CONTAMINATION IN THE VICINITY OF A NON-FERROUS METAL SMELTER

The aim of this study was to assess soil contamination with toxic metals ill the area of Piekary Slaskie (Silesian Voivodeship), taking into consideration various land use patterns. The scope of research covered (lie determination of lead and cadmium concentration in soil in the following areas: allotment gardens, fallow lands and kindergarten playgrounds. The lead and cadmium concentrations in soil samples were determined using, a flame atomic absorption spectrometry technique, after the aqua regia extraction ill a MDS 2000 microwave digestion system. The metal contents in the analyzed soil samples varied remarkably, depending oil the sampling location and its distance from the main emitter of toxic metals in Piekary Slaskie, i.e. "Orzel Bialy" Non-Ferro-us Metal Smelter. Metal concentrations determined in all soil samples significantly exceeded the concentration levels accepted in Poland for arable lands and residential areas. The lead and cadmium concentrations ill soil should become the basis for stopping edible plants cultivation in the area of Piekary Slaskie. The contaminated soil ill kindergarten playgrounds call be all important source of lead and cadmium contamination, posing hazard to the children's health. Contamination of playgrounds with toxic metals Should stimulate undertaking actions aimed at modernization of playgrounds and reduction of the children's contact with soil. In the context of the applied result assessment criteria the soil concentrations of these metals observed in the re.-ion of Pickary Slaskie should arouse great concern among its users and local authorities.