Background: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are persistent organic pollutants of significant concern due to their adverse health effects and widespread presence in indoor environments. Understanding the distribution and sources of PCB contamination in indoor settings is critical for effective risk management and mitigation strategies.
Methods: Dust samples were collected from 28 locations within public buildings in Isfahan. The concentration of PCBs was determined using an Agilent 7890A gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer. Additionally, the carcinogenic risk (CR) associated with PCB exposure via ingestion, inhalation, and
dermal contact was assessed for both children and adults. PCBs with six chlorine atoms in their structure were the dominant group, with a mean concentration of 74.42 ± 22.10 ng/g.
Results: The CR values were categorized as low for both age groups via ingestion and dermal pathways, ranging between 4.04E-05 and 2.27E-05. Furthermore, all sampling locations were classified as low risk in terms of total CR effects.
Conclusion: Inhalation risks from PCB exposure were relatively low; however, concerns persist regarding PCBs acting as vectors for other contaminants, thus amplifying health risks through dermal contact and ingestion. Effective management strategies are essential to mitigate PCB exposures and protect public health in indoor environments.