Blood lead levels in North Carolina painters

• Published in: Human & experimental toxicology 1995-05, Vol.14 (5), p.456-461
• Main Authors: Ennever, Fanny K, Zaccaro, Daniel J, Fernando, Reshan A, Jones, Bradley T
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Biological and medical sciences; Chemical and industrial products toxicology. Toxic occupational diseases; Female; Humans; Lead - blood; Male; Medical sciences; Metals and various inorganic compounds; Middle Aged; North Carolina; Occupational Exposure; Paint - adverse effects; Protective Devices; Surveys and Questionnaires; Toxicology
• ISSN: 0960-3271; 0144-5952; 1477-0903
• DOI: 10.1177/096032719501400512

1 Blood lead levels were examined in 127 housepainters in North Carolina between April and September, 1993. Each participant filled out a questionnaire and gave a blood sample. The questionnaire covered the individual's work history, concentrating on paint-removal activities and personal protection, and also covered potential non- occupational sources of lead exposure. Blood samples were analysed for lead content using atomic absorption spectroscopy. 2 The geometric mean blood lead level was 0.33 μmol L-1 (6.8 jg dL-1). No blood lead samples were found to exceed the occupational standard of 1.93 μmol L-1 (40 μg dL-1). The three highest samples had levels between 0.97 and 1.45 μmol L-1 (20 and 30 μg dL-1); this represented 2.4% of the study sample. 3 No statistical association was found between blood lead levels in these painters and their painting activities, including using dust masks for personal protection. 4 Current painting practices in this group of North Carolina painters do not appear to elevate blood lead lev els above the occupational standard.