The mean lead (Pb) urine concentration of 240 mg/L detected in
urine samples from paint factory workers was significantly higher
and twice that found in nonfactory workers (110 mg/L). Human
exposure to lead is common and results from the numerous uses of
this metal because of its exceptional properties. The industrial use
of lead is common in the manufacture of corrosion- and acidresistant
materials used in the building industry. In occupational
settings, the major routes of lead exposure are inhalation and
ingestion of lead-bearing dusts and fumes. Independent of the
route of exposure, absorbed lead is primarily excreted in urine and
feces; sweat, saliva, hair and nails, and breast milk are minor routes
of excretion [30]. Measurements of urinary lead levels have been
used to assess lead exposure [31e33]. In a recent study of Egyptian
policemen, urinary excretion was positively correlated with duration
of exposure to lead from automobile exhaust [33]. However,
urinary lead excretion reflects, mainly, recent exposure and, thus,
shares many of the same limitations for assessing lead body burden
or long-term exposure [34]. Drawing inference from this, the results
show that workers in paint factories are acutely (at least)
twice at risk for exposure to lead than the general population.
Symptoms of acute lead poisoning are headache, irritability