International Council for Education, Research and Training

Assessment Of Heavy Metals Concentration In Well Water In Surulere Local Government Area Of Lagos State

1OLUMIDE-ADU, MOSUNMOLA OMOLEWA

2CHUKWU, ENOCH CHIDIEBERE

1&2 Department of Chemistry Education, School of Science Education, Federal College of Education (Technical) Akoka, Lagos

Abstract

This study examined the level of heavy metals concentration in the well water of Surulere local government area. The concentration was determined using an absorption spectrophotometer. The concentration of Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd) and Zinc (Zn) was determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The heavy metals [lead, Cadmium and Zinc] concentration of well water from the sampling site was found below the world health organization’s (WHO) recommended limit.  The concentration of Cd was below the detection limit in some areas. It was recommended that the general public should be educated and enlightened on the health hazard involved in the consumption of contaminated water and there should be consistent monitoring of groundwater bodies in Lagos state.

Keywords: Heavy metals, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, Concentration, Well water.

Impact statement

This study aims to expose the potential risks and provides crucial insights for effective water management as well as implications of heavy metals concentrations in well water on both human health and environmental sustainability. It also assesses the potential health hazards associated with heavy metal exposure.

Exposure to high levels of heavy metals in drinking water can have detrimental effect on human health, leading to various chronic diseases and disorders. 

If the area with elevated heavy metals can be identified, then policy makers and health authorities can take targeted measures to ensure access to save and clean drinking water for communities, thereby promoting well being of the People. 

This study will also help in preserving our natural resources because heavy metals concentrations can have severe consequences on our ecosystem like soil pollution and harm to the aquatic life.

Practices such as water treatment, land use planning and pollution prevention measures can reduce the effect of heavy metals to the minimal.

The results of this findings can support the development of policies and regulations related to water quality standards. Also, informed decisions can be made regarding permissible limits, monitoring protocols and strategies that protect water resources and prioritize public health. 

This study will empower communities to actively participate in their own water management, raising awareness like potential risks and encourage them to take steps to reduce contamination source.




About The Author

Mosunmola  Omolewa Olumide-Adu has had over ten years’ experience in the teaching profession. She started out as a subject teacher at Sani Dingyadi Unity Secondary School, Farfaru Sokoto State, Northern  Nigeria, where she taught Integrated Science.

Later on, she taught Basic Science and Chemistry at Federal College of Education (Technical) Secondary School, Akoka Lagos. Nigeria. She was a subject teacher as well as Year Tutor for many years. 

Later in 2015, She got redeployed as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry Education, School of Science, Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka Lagos. 

She holds B Sc. in Chemistry Education from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile- Ife, Nigeria. Currently, she is about concluding her M Ed. Chemistry at the University of Lagos Nigeria.

She has to her credit many Journal Publications and has attended many Conferences both Local and International.

References

NIS (2008). Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality. Standards for Natural Mineral Water – NIS 345: 2008 and Potable Water – NIS. 306: 2008

Orosom, M.M, T. chokossa, P, Nwankwo, l, Lawal, T.O, Bello, S.A, &, Ige, S.O.2016. Assessment of heavy metal pollution in drinking water due to mining and smelting activities in Ajaokuta, Nigeria.

Surulere local government area. Wikipedia, www.en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surulere. Retrieved by 10 September 2022.

Valoon, G. W and Duffy, S. J. (2005). The hudrosphere in environmental chemistry: A global perspective. 2nd edition, New York. Oxford University press. 

World Health Organization (WHO). 2011, Guidelines for drinking water quality, 4th edition, Geneva, Switzerland.

World Health Organization and United Nations Children’s Fund (2012). Progress on     drinking water and sanitation.

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