Industries and processes in which individuals may be exposed to lead

LEAD
Inorganic lead and lead compounds (to be known as lead) are used extensively throughout industry.
However, some processes may generate lead dust, fumes or vapours which are hazardous to health.
Examples of industries and processes in which individuals may be exposed to lead include:
● Lead smelting, refining, alloying and casting
● Lead acid batteries manufacture and breaking
● Manufacturing lead compounds
● Working with metallic lead and alloys containing lead, for example soldering
● Manufacturing leaded-glass
● Some painting of buildings and bridges; some spray-painting of vehicles
● Hot cutting of demolition and dismantling operations and recovering lead from scrap and waste
● Manufacturing pigments and colours
● Manufacturing and using ceramic glazes and colours
● Manufacturing ceramic transfers
● Jewellery and badge enamelling
● Furniture restoration
HEALTH EFFECTS OF LEAD
There are two forms of lead and lead compounds, Inorganic Lead and Lead Alkyls. This bulletin deals
only with inorganic lead and its compounds. Lead alkyls are used as additives in the petrochemcial
industry.
Routes of Exposure
The primary route of exposure for lead is individuals inhaling dusts, fumes or vapours. Once in the lungs
lead may pass into the blood stream where it will be transported around the body finally being deposited
mainly in bones.
The secondary route of exposure is through ingestion. Lead may enter the stomach as a result of
individuals eating, drinking, smoking or biting their nails when their hands are contaminated with lead.
Only lead alkyls (organic lead) can enter the body through Skin Absorption.
All Lead is slowly metabolised over time and excreted in the urine.