As we know, lead is a toxic element for health. The main sources of exposure today are food or lead paint in old dwellings. What about contaminated dust (such as during the Notre-Dame de Paris fire in April 2019) that is deposited on the surfaces of outdoor public spaces: sidewalks, roads, urban furniture, outdoor play areas?
In fact, as ANSES recalls, “lead can be emitted into the air by industrial or artisanal sites, and then be deposited in the environment. It can also be found in dust due to erosion or leaching of architectural elements containing it, and contaminate outdoor spaces through this. “
In a recent expert report, the Agency pointed out that these dusts “are a source of exposure to be considered”. Even if it “is difficult to quantify”.
Children and workers
First audience potentially concerned: children. Indeed, the priority route of exposure is the ingestion of dust and the smallest have the annoying tendency to put their hands to the mouth. ANSES therefore recalls some preventive measures. Namely, frequent hand washing, or taking off your shoes to limit the transport of dust in the accommodation.
Other people concerned, workers exposed to outdoor dust. Here, the Agency first recommends measuring the blood lead level to estimate the exposure. As well as reinforced individual medical monitoring.
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Source: Destination Santé
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