POWER SPECTRUM ANALYSIS OF RADIATION LEVELS AND HEAVY METALS OF SELECTED DUMPSITES IN MAKURDI METROPOLIS, BENUE STATE

Abstract

Radiation levels and heavy metals concentration from some selected dumpsite were measured in view to identify its effect on humans and the environment in Makurdi metropolis. These were carried out using radiation alert inspector. Heavy metals concentration of Chromium, Manganese, Iron, Copper and Lead from the soil samples of the dump sites was analysed using a AA-700 Dual Atomizer Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Results obtained reveal that, the radiation level from the various dumpsites ranged between a maximum value of 7mSv at 6 minutes and a minimum value of 4mSv at 9 minutes, which is lower than the recommended safety limit of 15mSv as stipulated by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. With this, there is no immediate health hazard on those living around the dumpsites but if not controlled and precautions taken, adverse health effect may occur. Heavy metal analysis in these dumpsites show that Iron has the highest Mean Concentration while Chromium has the lowest Mean Concentration. However, the Concentration of Copper was higher than the safety limit stipulated by EU, UK and NESREA. High concentration of Copper could lead to health effects such as vomiting, diarrhoea and lung failure.