Biological monitoring of occupational exposure to inorganic lead: a comparison between salivary, blood and airborne lead levels.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Inorganic lead exposure is a relevant occupational health issue in many industry sectors. European regulations set specific limits for time-weighted chemical airborne exposure and for biological exposure. While blood lead monitoring is the current standard, saliva sampling offers a less invasive alternative for biomonitoring. This study evaluates the potential of salivary lead assessment as an alternative biological matrix for occupational exposure monitoring.

Methods

An observational study was conducted at a lead-acid battery production facility in Central Italy from July to December 2024. Ninety-two male workers participated: 46 occupationally exposed and 46 non-exposed workers. Salivary lead levels were measured using ICP-MS in all participants. Blood lead leve

SUBMITTER: Tobia L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12729134 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature