Pollution and Perceptions of Lead in Automobile Repair Shops in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

Background. Lead acid batteries are widely used, dependable, and inexpensive. Lead from these batteries can contaminate the surrounding ecosystem due to improper disposal and contribute to lead poisoning. Lead poisoning is an important public health issue that can cause adverse human health impacts. Objectives. The present study aimed to assess exposure to lead released from automobile repair shops handling lead acid batteries in the city of Dhaka, Bangladesh, as well as shop owner and worker perceptions of lead pollution. Methods. Ten dust samples were collected for atomic absorption spectrophotometer analysis to determine the concentration of lead. In addition, a questionnaire survey (N=75) was conducted to determine the level of knowledge of lead exposure and associated risks. Results. Lead contamination was found in all dust samples, with lead concentrations ranging from 11.40 ppm to greater than 1000 ppm. In addition, 80% of respondents did not have any knowledge about the harmful effects of lead pollution. Conclusions. The present study suggests the importance of defining permissible air lead levels and improving worker education on lead pollution. Ethics Approval. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Department of Environmental Science, Stamford University, Bangladesh. Competing Interests. The authors declare no competing financial interests.