The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re-evaluated lead [7439-92-17439-92-1] and its inorganic compounds (except lead arsenate and lead chromate) and has derived a biological tolerance value (BAT value) at the workplace for the blood concentration of lead and a pregnancy risk group classification. Neurotoxicity is considered to be the most sensitive end point. Neurotoxic effects have been described at concentrations above 180 μg lead/l blood. Therefore, a BAT value of 150 μg lead/l blood was established. Because of the long persistence of lead in the body, the sampling time is not fixed. Since damage to the embryo or foetus in humans by lead has been unequivocally demonstrated and is to be expected even when the maximum workplace concentration (MAK value) and BAT value are observed, Pregnancy Risk Group A was determined.
