Hunan chemical plant shut after lead poisoning
Updated: 2014-06-15 16:55
(Xinhua)
|
|||||||||||
CHANGSHA - A chemical plant in central China's Hunan Province has been closed down over suspicion that it caused the lead poisoning of hundreds of local children.
Blood tests on more than 300 children in Dapu Township of Hengdong County found excessive levels of lead, indicating heavy metal poisoning, said the press office of the county government on Sunday.
The lead densities in their blood all exceeded the national standard of 100 micrograms per liter for children, with the tests revealing densities as high as 322 micrograms per liter.
Local authorities on Saturday set up an investigation team and shut down the Meilun Chemical Materials Limited Company.
Locals had reported it discharging untreated dust and waste water, both of which could have caused the children's poisoning.
Excessive amounts of lead in the blood harm the nervous and reproductive systems and can cause high blood pressure and anemia. In severe cases, it can lead to convulsions, comas and death.
Related Stories
Training program to raise awareness of chemical suppliers 2014-06-10 17:05
E China chemical spill forces water cut-off 2014-05-18 17:35
5 dead, 3 missing in E China chemical plant blast 2014-04-16 14:11
China detains 18 in chemical plant protest 2014-04-03 17:27
Controversial chemical found in bread and flour 2014-04-01 16:01
Today's Top News
Prime London properties lure investors
FIFA bans Suarez for 4 months
Tycoon criticized for charity in NY
50 trapped Chinese back to Baghdad
Northern Iraqis flee their home, avoiding Sunni millitans
DPRK test-fires newly developed missiles
RIMPAC drill not window-dressing for China-US ties
Li puts China-UK ties on new level
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
China helps fight international war on drugs |
Crackdown on terrorist attacks |
My China Story: Meeting the master |
Long march to end employment bias |
Variety is the spice of academic life |
Documents prove the truth can't be buried |