Lead Lead Health Effects Lead in urban atmospheres is contained in small particles that are readily inhaled and can enter the lung. They are then absorbed into the bloodstream and add to the lead derived from food and water.
Young children are particularly susceptible.
Sources Exhaust emissions from motor vehicles using leaded petrol are the main source of lead in the urban atmosphere. The current one year standard for lead in air is 50 micrograms per cubic metre. Goal One year standard should not be exceeded. Consequences The lead content of ambient air comes predominantly from leaded petrol and the use of unleaded petrol is the most efficient strategy for control.