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The Hazards of Melting Lead

Lead is a common metal used for centuries for a wide variety of things. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns of the dangers of lead in paint, old homes, soil and in some products. The New York State Department of Health says that inhaling lead fumes can be more harmful than breathing in the dust found in old paint during renovation projects and other occupational situations.

  1. General Risks

    • The EPA outlines many risks involving handling and exposure to lead including breathing in lead dust released by renovation projects, handling objects with lead dust on them and eating soil or paint chips contaminated with lead. The New York State Department of Health warns of risks involving grinding or sanding leaded surfaces and working with cable or wire containing lead. Lead enters the body through inhalation of dust or fumes and by contaminating objects put into the mouth from lead on the skin.

    Fumes

    • Lead has a low melting point of 621.5 degrees Fahrenheit making it useful for welding and soldering projects that increase the potential of breathing harmful fumes. The New York State Department of Health cautions that heating paint to remove it, soldering, lead smelting, or torch-cutting contaminated metal can release the dangerous fumes.

    Symptoms

    • People exposed to lead first get symptoms that include loss of appetite, fatigue, headache and a metallic taste in the mouth. The symptoms progress into stomach pain, muscle and joint ache, memory loss and irregularity.

    Health Problems

    • The Environmental Protection Agency warns that long-term effects of lead exposure can produce many health concerns including increased blood pressure, reproductive effects, nerve conditions, memory loss and muscle pain. They warn that children may experience brain damage, headaches, developmental problems and hearing loss. Children have a higher risk because their maturing bodies absorb more lead than adults.

    Precautions

    • The New York State Department of Health advises the use of "clean, properly fitted air purifying respirator equipped with P100 filters (purple) as a minimum level of protection," in situations where lead fumes or dust is present. They suggest hand washing, showering, and changing clothes after possible exposure and before smoking, drinking or eating. The EPA advises you to get checked by your doctor if you think you or your children are have been exposed.

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