What is lead?

8/09/2015

EDI_lead_photo

Lead is a chemical element, inside the group of carbon, an odorless substance, insoluble in water and organic solvents.

In nature, lead is mainly found in various ores and it is used in batteries, for cable sheathing, containers and pipes as well as in radiation protection.

Furthermore, it is used in the production of pigments and alloys. (chemical group: heavy metals).

When the lead enter in the environment does not break down, but lead compounds are changed by sunlight, air and water.

When lead is released into the air, can travel long distances before settling to the ground and once dropped, it usually sticks to soil particles.

Movement of lead from soil into groundwater will depend on the type of lead compound and soil characteristics.

In the case of demolition industries, workers can be exposed to lead because they are in areas where leaded paints have been used and are deteriorating.

The effects of lead are the same whether it is ingested or inhaled and it can affect almost every organ system in the body.

 

Risks to health

The lead has the following risks to health:

  • Inhalation or swallowing can be harmful to health.
  • Accumulates in the body.
  • Temporary complaints such as headache, fatigue, nausea, skin discoloration can occur.
  • Can cause health problems such as blood picture changes, colic, seizures, renal damage, disturbed vision, high blood pressure (hypertension).
  • Long-term damage to health, such as nerve damage is possible.
  • Lead is suspected of having a harmful effect on reproductive capacity

 

Personal protection

 The following items are compulsory for working with lead:

  • Eye protection: Glasses,etc.
  • Hand protection: Gloves made of: fluororubber. (chemical protective gloves category 3, recognizable due to the CE-mark with four-digit test number).
  • Skin protection: Use grease-free skin protection ointment for all uncovered parts of the body.
  • Breathing protection: Recommended is the use of A2-P3. When exceeding the threshold values for example with full mask: combined filter A2-P2 (brown-white).
  • Body protection: (Disposable) chemical protective suit and plastic boots. At higher concentrations, difficult situations and in confined spaces (e.g. pits, shafts and silos) only breathing equipment independent of the surrounding air is to be used.

 

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