Low exposures, that in the past were thought safe, are now considered hazardous as new information emerges about the toxicity of lead.
Lead enters the body by breathing or swallowing lead dust, fume or mist.
Lead is absorbed into the blood-stream and distributed throughout the body. The lead that is not excreted right away is stored in soft tissues and bone. Body stores of lead are gradually released back into the bloodstream over time. Many parts of the body can be affected. An additional concern for pregnant women is that lead easily crosses the placenta and can harm the developing child.