Lead, ingested or inhaled, is a health hazard. After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned, what still are the sources of lead poisoning? [2012]

Lead, ingested or inhaled, is a health hazard. After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned, what still are the sources of lead poisoning?

Smelting units
Pens and pencils
Paints
Hair oils and cosmetics

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1, 2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
2 and 4 only
1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

Smelting units: Lead smelting units release lead particles into the air, posing a significant health risk through inhalation and environmental contamination.
Pens and pencils: Modern pens and pencils do not contain lead. The term “lead pencil” refers to the graphite (a form of carbon) used in pencils, which is not toxic.
Paints: Lead-based paints are still a source of lead poisoning, especially in older buildings where such paints were used.
Hair oils and cosmetics: Although some traditional or unregulated cosmetics may contain lead (e.g., certain types of kohl or sindoor), regulated products are largely lead-free, making this an uncommon source.

Additional Information

Lead is a bluish-white lustrous metal naturally found in the Earth’s crust.
It is also found in small amounts in air, soil and water.
It is very soft, highly malleable, ductile, and a relatively poor conductor of electricity compared to copper, gold, etc.
Native lead is rare in nature. Currently, lead is usually found in ore with zinc, silver and copper and it is extracted together with these metals.
It has a relatively low melting point compared to most metals.
It has good resistance to corrosion, especially in non-acidic environments.

Infographic explaining lead exposure sources and adverse health effects, highlighting how lead enters the body through inhalation, ingestion, and respiratory/digestive systems. It categorizes lead-induced issues into neurological, gastrointestinal, reproductive, blood, and renal problems.

Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Medium

2012, PYQs