Introduction
This topic covers chronic saturnism, the long-term poisoning caused by inorganic lead compounds absorbed at work. It covers the sources and routes of exposure, how lead acts on the body, the nervous, gastrointestinal, haematological and renal effects, how the disease is diagnosed and treated, and how occupational medical expertise is applied.
Etiology and sources
Chronic lead poisoning is caused by repeated exposure to inorganic lead compounds, mainly lead acetate, lead chloride and lead nitrate, as well as metallic lead and lead oxides in dust and fume. Lead is a persistent pollutant: it does not break down, it accumulates in dust, soil and old materials, and it can remain a hazard in a workplace for many years after production has stopped.
- Storage battery production, recycling and repair
- Soldering, cable and metal smelting, and lead refining
- Paint manufacture, painting and removal of old lead paint
- Ceramic glazes and pottery, printing inks, and glass
- Plastics (lead stabilisers in PVC) and ammunition production