Lead exposure in the ceramic industry. Evaluation of job exposure in three factories different in size and work organisation.

Air-lead levels (PbA) and biological indices were studied in three ceramic factories (185 workers altogether). A difference in the pattern of lead exposure was found in the largest factory (A) and the other two smaller factories (B and C). PbA never exceeded 67 micrograms/m3 in factory A, but reached values as high as 378 micrograms/m3 in factory B. 19% of PbB values were higher than 40 micrograms/100 ml in factory A, 63% in factory B and 35% in factory C. As was expected, a closer analysis of the jobs confirmed a higher exposure level in people directly in contact with lead glazes (glazers and kiln operators). In factories B and C, however, there was also a significant lead uptake in selection and maintenance staff, who worked in areas at some distance from the glazing lines. This may be due in part to pollution spread over all departments, but also to the lack of hygiene and washing facilities whose importance is stressed for effective prevention. Biological monitoring is suggested as being useful for all workers, whatever the lead-air level, bearing in mind the possibility of lead intake orally through soiling.