Science & Technology2012
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 codes given below:
Explanation
The correct option, "1 and 3 only," is accurate as it highlights significant sources of lead exposure that remain after the ban on leaded petrol. Smelting units can release lead particles into the environment, posing risks to workers and surrounding communities. Additionally, lead-based paints, commonly used in older structures, can degrade and produce lead dust or chips, particularly hazardous for children who may ingest them during normal activities. In contrast, pens and pencils typically do not contain lead, and while some hair oils and cosmetics may have heavy metal contamination, they are less prominent sources of lead poisoning compared to industrial and paint-related sources.
