QUEENSLAND’S Health Department has released the long-awaited study entitled “Get Bled for Lead” which looks at blood lead levels in children at Mount Isa.
This follows the ongoing issue where Xstrata allegedly allowed contaminants from its mine to leak into the local river system. In April, the company was sued by a six-year-old girl whose exposure to the chemicals was said to have affected her brain and nervous system.
The study confirmed earlier suspicions. 45 children from the ages of one to four had blood lead levels above the World Health Organisation’s recommended safe level of less than ten micrograms per decilitre.
According to the WHO, blood lead levels above this limit could be toxic for children, and impair cognitive development.
An environmental scientist claims the problems are longstanding. Dr Mark Taylor had first discovered the potential problem in 2001, when he realised the lead mine was located upstream from the town’s drinking water source.
No one had carried out environmental research on the issue. The Environmental Protection Agency had no prior records on soil and water tests in the area.
According to the scientist, his tests showed both the water and soil in the areas nearer to the mine displayed various levels of lead contamination.
900 homes are estimated to be built on contaminated land, with potential consequences for hundreds of children.
The mining company says it will support the campaign to improve the health and safety of the town.
Add a comment