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The Environmental Protection Agency has released the Hazardous Waste Characteristics Scoping Study which called attention to current gaps in hazardous waste regulation, including ground water exposure to toxic metals. Each chemical featured in this section is mentioned in the study as a potential gap in hazardous waste protection.
Lead
Lead and its compounds have a variety of uses, such as paint pigments, batteries, ceramics, electronic devices, plastics, and lead piping. If not managed properly after production of these goods, lead residues have the potential to harm both humans and the environment.
Hazard Summary
Lead Powder is highly flammable. When ignited, lead releases a poisonous gas.
Repeated exposure causes lead build-up in body tissue. Low levels may cause tiredness, mood changes, and stomach problems. Higher levels may yield weakness and concentration or memory problems.
At high exposure levels, lead can cause permanent kidney or brain damage.
Exposure will increase the risk of high blood pressure.
Lead may decrease fertility in males and females.
Environmental Dangers
Short term ecological effects may include the death of animals, birds, and fish, and a low growth rate in plants.
Lead and its compounds have high acute toxicity to aquatic life.
Long term effects include shortened life span, reproductive problems, and changes in behavior.
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