Health Hazard Related to Fine Road Dust in Poland

Air pollution emissions from road vehicles majorly contribute to particulate pollution. This poses significant threats to the environment and human health. Road dust contains various potentially toxic elements, which, when exposed to humans, can lead to severe illnesses such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. This study assessed adult health risks through accidental ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact associated with heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in road dust (with a fraction size < 0.1 mm). The analysis covers areas between sound-absorbing screens (S), in open spaces without screens (F), and at highway/express exits (E) with different surfaces: asphalt (A) and concrete (C). Results indicate the highest health risk levels are associated with Zn in road dust in S and E areas, indicating its potential negative impact on human health. When comparing results for all metals, road dust collected from A surfaces might pose a greater health risk than C surfaces. The carcinogenic risk for Cr and Ni found in road dust collected from A and C surfaces at points S, F, and E is medium. The most significant carcinogenic risk (medium-high) is associated with Cr in road dust from A surfaces in the F area, whereas the lowest risk (low-medium) for both A and C surfaces is linked to Ni exposure in the S point. The contributions of Cr and Ni highlight the need to reduce emissions of these elements in areas surrounding heavily trafficked roads.