Résumé
Pickling is a process for the removal of a scale, oxides, or other impurities from a metal surface by immersion in an inorganic acid, usually sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, nitric, hydrofluoric, or phosphoric acid. This research aims at environmental assessment, health survey and biological monitoring of metals for workers engaged in the process of metal pickling in steel industry. Our study design is an interventional study that includes environmental assessment of the work place for hydrochloric acid and chlorine gas, clinical evaluation, ECG, ventilatory functions and biological measurements of metals [Ca, Pb, Cd. Cu. and Mn.]. We suggested ventilation means to ameliorate workplace conditions. Reassessment of air quality is tested. Very high environmental measures of HCL and Cl[2] were found in metal pickling ward that responded dramatically to enhance exhaust ventilation means [p<0.01]. Metal screening revealed low mean value of calcium both total and ionized levels, 15 cases of high Pb, 3 cases of high Cd. and 3 cases with high Cu. We concluded that environmental and engineering control measures besides the use of personal protective equipment is important in minimizing exposure hazards. Exposure to metals leached from steel surfaces during pickling is a great hazard affecting the level of body trace elements. We recommend enhancing the ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment [PPE]. Raising the awareness of all workers about the importance of use of PPE is mandatory