Monitoring the Ecosystem Near Petroleum Refining and Petrochemical Plants in an Urban Environment

Neutron activation analysis was used in a comprehensive study of the surface layer of soils, drinking (tap) water, and the hair of residents of the city of Salavat as an index of the anthropogenic load on the human body. The surface soil layer showed an increased amount of such elements as arsenic, calcium, cobalt, chromium, nickel, thorium, uranium, zinc, which can be used in organic synthesis. The contents of iron, manganese, and nickel in the tap water were found to be above permissible limits. Analysis of the hair of city residents showed risk groups for cardiovascular disease (74%) and gastrointestinal disease (71%). Such high levels indicate poor ecological conditions.