Evaluation of airborne and blood lead concentration in auto repair technicians in Sanandaj industrial town

The present study aimed to investigate the concentrations of lead in the inhalable air (APb) and whole blood (BPb) of automobile repair technicians in an industrial town located in western Iran. The study population consisted of 60 automobile technicians, including painters, smoothers, welders, and turners, all of whom had a minimum of two years of professional experience in their respective trade. Demographic data, along with information regarding health history and occupational and environmental exposure to lead, were collected via a structured questionnaire. Lead concentrations in the breathing air and blood samples were analyzed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), in accordance with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) method 7300. The results indicated that the average BPb level among all technician groups was 28.79 µg/dL, surpassing the threshold established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). Conversely, the mean APb concentration was recorded at 0.038 mg/m³, which did not exceed the permissible limits. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between APb and BPb levels, suggesting that exposure to lead may occur through alternative pathways beyond inhalation. Furthermore, BPb levels were positively correlated with years of work experience among participants. In light of the findings, it is strongly recommended that automobile repair technicians utilize personal protective equipment such as respiratory masks and gloves, adopt appropriate and hygienic work attire, ensure adequate ventilation, and maintain a clean and isolated environment for eating and drinking. Additionally, ongoing supervision and training programs should be implemented to mitigate lead exposure in this occupational cohort.