Blood lead concentrations in exposed forecourt attendants and taxi drivers in parts of South Africa

BackgroundLeaded fuel was banned in South Africa in 2006, in order to improve human health and reduce environmental pollution. Lead (Pb) has been suggested to contribute to the development of neurodegenerative disorders, and the role of respiratory exposure to Pb from petrol fumes should not be neglected in this context. In addition to Pb, petrol contains various harmful chemicals including other neurotoxic metals and hydrocarbons. Objectives and MethodsHere, we investigated concentrations of Pb and other metals in blood from taxi drivers (n=21), petrol station forecourt attendants (n=38), and a control group (n=36). Participants were divided into three groups based on number of years worked as taxi drivers or forecourt attendants. A questionnaire was designed to investigate the health status of the participants. Blood samples were collected by medical professionals and analyzed for metal concentrations by ICP-MS. ResultsA positive correlation between number of years worked and Pb blood concentrations was found. The highest Pb concentration (60.2 g/L) was observed in a forecourt attendant who had worked 11 to 20 years, and the average Pb concentration in this group (24.5 g/L) was significantly higher (p<0.05) than in forecourt attendants who had worked 2 to 5 years (10.4 g/L). Some individuals had elevated concentrations of manganese, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and cobalt, yet not significantly elevated at the group level. The blood levels of arsenic appeared to be related to smoking. Mood swings, dizziness, headaches and tiredness were reported by the participants. ConclusionBlood Pb concentrations in petrol station forecourt attendants and taxi drivers exposed to petrol are elevated and correlate to exposure time. A health monitoring program should be erected for all individuals working in these industries, and preventive measures should be implemented to eliminate metal exposure from petrol.