Are Current ‘Acceptable’ Blood Lead Levels Safe for Female Workers of Reproductive Age?

Abstract

Although occupational exposure to lead has declined dramatically since the establishment of better occupational hygiene and the improvement of standards, chronic exposure at a low level has remained a public health problem in many societies. Because many adverse pregnancy outcomes have been reported at ʻacceptableʼ blood lead levels (≤5 μg/dl), occupational health policymakers should improve the industrial standard of lead exposure for female workers of reproductive age. To achieve this goal, there is a need to carry out more studies on pregnant female workers in lead-related industries to find a safe level for them. In addition, blood lead screening programs for female workers should be considered on regular bases during reproductive age.