Effectiveness of interventions on biological monitoring among workers exposed to Pb from lead-acid storage battery plant

Abstract

Background: Studies related to the effectiveness of combined interventions such as engineering and administrative controls, use of a respirator, and conducting awareness program about lead exposure on biological monitoring among lead battery workers were not reported. Objective: This study has assessed the effectiveness of interventions on biological monitoring among lead battery manufacturing workers. Materials and Methods: The intervention methods were use of a respirator, awareness program about lead exposure, engineering and administrative controls. Blood lead levels (BLLs) among workers were estimated using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Hematological parameters in workers were determined using Fx-19E automated hematology analyzer. Reticulocyte count in workers was done using supravital staining method. Results: The mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, the proportion of alcohol consumption, and smoking habits were noted to be significantly decreased among workers after the intervention. The BLLs were reduced significantly among workers engaged in assembly, casting, engineering services, formation, acid filling, and in executives after the intervention. The red cell indices such as erythrocytes and hematocrit were significantly increased and mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and reticulocyte count were significantly decreased after the intervention. Conclusions: Austere implementation of control measures in lead-acid storage battery plant showed beneficial health effects among lead exposed workers.