Problem

Lead as a health hazard at work

Other Names:
Lead dust
Saturnism
Occupational lead poisoning
Nature:

Lead appears as dust or fumes in the air of the work-place. Occupational exposure may occur in mines; but more commonly in lead smelters, where lead is produced from lead ore or scrap, and in occupations where lead or lead compounds are used, such as the production and repair of storage batteries and the polishing and welding of lead-coated or lead-painted materials. This may occur in shipyards, car factories, glass and ceramic factories, and printing and paint shops. Lead also exists in air due to pollution of exhaust gases of automobiles. Manifestations of lead poisoning (mainly in occupationally exposed adults) include gastrointestinal disturbances, anaemia, neuropathy and renal damage. Lead has a toxic effect on the human foetus through the mother's employment in lead-using industries.

Related Problems:
Lead poisoning in the home
Subject(s):
Fundamental Sciences Metallic elements and alloys
Geology Soil
Health Care Health
Social Activity Occupation
Social Activity Work
Societal Problems Hazards
Societal Problems Poison
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals:
GOAL 3: Good Health and Well-beingGOAL 8: Decent Work and Economic GrowthGOAL 15: Life on Land
Problem Type:
E: Emanations of other problems
Date of last update
06.05.2019 – 17:26 CEST