Under H2O Pollution Concerns

[justbreathe]

I am concerned about the possibility of heavy metals and toxins affecting my health when i am diving as these are concentrated underwater and are often at the bottom of ocean floors. Does anyone know of any health risks acssociated with this??

 

[Paul Evans]

I am concerned about the possibility of heavy metals and toxins affecting my health when i am diving as these are concentrated underwater and are often at the bottom of ocean floors. Does anyone know of any health risks acssociated with this??

I would have thought it would only be a problem if you injusted toxins.

Just dont dive downstream of Dow Chemicals

 

[rmediver2002]

Ports facilities often have elevated levels of toxins in the sediment, some of the toxins are from old bottoms paints used in the US, contaminates currently from ships from overseas, and washed in contamination from harbor operations.

During some recovery operations we have had to have blood testing for current levels prior to exposure and then follow up testing after exposure. Mercury was the largest concern for us as it is easily absorbed into the skin. None of our divers have had any increase in blood levels but we were diving full containment.

 

[archman]

I am concerned about the possibility of heavy metals and toxins affecting my health when i am diving as these are concentrated underwater and are often at the bottom of ocean floors.

Do you plan on visiting the ocean floors anytime soon? Typically any sea bottom that nasty will preclude diving... usually adjacent to a river and/or seaport. Obviously stay away from places like Lake Ponchartrain, Galveston Bay, or Los Angeles Harbor.

You can usually call up the state or local water quality board and inquire about specific water bodies. Outside the U.S. (and maybe Europe) you'll have a much harder time getting answers, unless you luck into a scientific report or perform the tests yourself.

 

[justbreathe]

Thanks for everyone's input.I'm considering a career as a Commercial Diver which is why i was concerned, considering that i may be diving in not the best of conditions.