25 occupational health case study

Question 1

what are the useful properties of lead?

Answer 1

-ductility
-low melting point
-density, absorption of radiation, sounds and vibration
-chemical properties (e.g. combines with nitrogen)
-resists acid and corrosion

no physiological function in the body

Question 2

what are the historical sources of lead exposure?

Answer 2

Question 3

what was a major contemporary source of lead exposure?

Answer 3

Question 4

what is the source of lead in aircraft?

Answer 4

Question 5

what are other contemporary sources of lead exposure?

Answer 5

-ammunition
-explosives
-leaded paint
-oil plumbing and fixtures
-lead smelting and recycling
-solder (Pb+Sn), welding (minor), metalworking
-crafts and hobbies
-kohl and certain herbal remedies

Question 6

what is lead adsorption?

Answer 6

-inhalation (lead dust, fumes)
-ingestion

Question 7

what are the health effects of lead?

Answer 7

Question 8

what does lead interfere with?

Answer 8

Question 9

Question 10

how do we check for lead?

Answer 10

-air sampling for lead particulate
-surface samples: testing kits (wipe the surface, note presence of color change to indicate lead)

biological monitoring (blood lead level)
-occupational blood lead monitoring
-reliable test, easy to do, results take 2-4 weeks