Blood lead levels in North Carolina painters

Abstract

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.