Investigation on lead exposure level of workers in lead-acid battery enterprises in Wuhan / 公共卫生与预防医学

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the lead pollution status in the workplaces of enterprises in the lead-acid battery industry in Wuhan, to analyze the correlation between lead level in the workplace and blood lead concentration in exposed workers, and to provide some advice on occupational health problems for companies. Methods Lead fume and lead dust in the workplaces were monitored from the workplaces of four lead-acid battery companies in Wuhan, and the blood lead levels of lead exposed workers were tested. Results The exceeding standard rate of lead concentration in the workplace was 34.95%, and the exceeding rate of blood lead was 1.74% among 1 435 workers. As the age of exposure increased, the average blood lead concentration of workers increased, and the difference in blood lead concentration among workers in each enterprise was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion The lead concentration in the workplaces of the lead-acid battery industry in Wuhan seriously exceeded the standard. There were significant differences in blood lead concentrations among lead-exposed workers in different enterprises. Relevant departments and employees should take corresponding measures to reduce the harm.