UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 15 of 98

UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Lead Poisoning Sources

Lead, ingested or inhaled, is a health hazard. After the addition of lead to petrol has been banned, what are still the sources of lead poisoning?

1. Smelting units

2. Pens and pencils

3. Paints

4. Hair oils and cosmetics

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

  1. 1, 2 and 3 only
  2. 1 and 3 only
  3. 2 and 4 only
  4. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Show answer

Answer: B. 1 and 3 only

Verdict

Correct Answer: 1 and 3 only

Statements 1 and 3 are correct because smelting units and paints can expose people to lead, while pens, pencils, standard hair oils and cosmetics are not major general sources of lead poisoning.

Analysis

Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. Even after leaded petrol was banned, some industrial and household sources still remain important.

Statement by statement

1. Smelting units — Correct

Lead smelting units are a major source of lead exposure.

They release lead-containing dust and fumes, which can contaminate air, soil and water and affect workers as well as nearby residents.

2. Pens and pencils — Incorrect

Pencil “lead” is not actual lead.

It is made mainly of graphite and clay, so ordinary pens and pencils are not significant sources of lead poisoning.

3. Paints — Correct

Lead-based paints, especially in old buildings, are an important source of lead exposure.

Peeling, sanding or chipping of such paint can produce lead-contaminated dust, which is especially dangerous for children.

4. Hair oils and cosmetics — Incorrect

Standard modern hair oils and cosmetics are not generally treated as major sources of lead poisoning.

Some non-standard or traditional products may contain lead, but this is not the usual general source in this context.

Extra UPSC info

* Lead is a cumulative toxicant and can build up in the body over time.

* Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because it affects brain development and learning ability.

* Major sources include lead smelting, lead-acid batteries, contaminated soil and old lead-based paints.

* Lead exposure can affect the nervous system, gastrointestinal system, kidneys and cardiovascular system.

* Leaded petrol has been phased out in India, but legacy contamination may still persist.

* Do not confuse pencil “lead” with metallic lead; pencil cores are graphite-based.

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