EPA Tightens
Lead Exposure Standard
[Posted 10/21/2008]
The new
standard limits ambient air lead to .15 micrograms
per cubic meter of air. The previous standard (1978)
was 1.5 micrograms. The Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) is also redesigning its monitoring
network to better assess compliance to the new
standard.
Major sources of lead emissions have been motor vehicles
and manufacturing plants. Lead in the air dropped
dramatically when the EPA banned lead in gasoline in
1980.
Past studies have directly linked lead exposure to
adverse neurological effects in children and
cardiovascular effects in adults.
Once emitted, lead is persistent in the environment,
accumulating in soils and sediments. It poses a
threat to humans, plants, and animals.
Related Links:
OHSOnline News Article
EPA: Lead in Air Website
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