Skin contamination and absorption of chemicals from water and soil

Abstract

Contamination of soil and water (ground and surface water) and the transfer of hazardous chemicals is a major concern. When the large surface area of skin is exposed to contaminated soil and water (work, play, swim, daily bath), skin absorption may be significant. Brown et al. (1) suggested that skin absorption of contaminants in water has been underestimated and that ingestion may not constitute the sole, or even the primary route of exposure. Soil has become an environmental depository for potentially hazardous chemicals. Exposure through work in pesticide-sprayed areas on chemical dump sites seems obvious. However, there may be hidden dangers in weekend gardening or in the child’s play area where the soil has become laden with lead or other hazardous chemicals.