Lead Poisoning
Lead is used in many industries like manufacture of battery, cable, paints, pigments, PVC plastics, rubbers, and wire. It is the most commonly used heavy metal in the industries. Hence lead poisoning is the commonest type of poisoning seen in industrial workers. All lead compounds are toxic. Most cases of industrial lead poisoning are due to inhalation of fumes and dust of lead or its compounds.
The condition is diagnosed by the following features.
1. Burning pain in stomach.
2. Cold skin.
3. Constipation followed by diarrhea.
4. Convulsions
5. Cyanosis.
6. Headache.
7. Insomnia.
8. Mental confusion.
9. Metallic taste in mouth.
10. Muscular weakness.
Prevention
- Reduce or eliminate exposure to lead.
- Enclose and segregate all processes which give rise to harmful concentration of lead dust or fumes. Provide exhaust system.
- Provide adequate washing facilities.
- Keep floors, benches, and machines clean by wet mopping.
- Wash hands well before eating.
First Aid
- Keep the victim quiet.
- Give gastric lavage with magnesium or sodium sulfate.
- Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
- Give analgesics for pain.
- Give diazepam intravenously for convulsions.
- Give calcium ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid as antidote.
- Establish adequate urine flow.
